What does "the righteous" mean in the context of Proverbs 12:26? Verse at a Glance “A righteous man is cautious in friendship, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.” (Proverbs 12:26) Key Word: “Righteous” • Hebrew root: ṣaddîq — one who is “just,” “upright,” “conforming to the standard.” • In Proverbs, the term describes people whose beliefs, words, and actions line up with God’s revealed will. • Not merely outward morality; it flows from reverence for the LORD (Proverbs 1:7; 3:5-7). • Stands in contrast to “wicked,” who ignore or oppose God’s ways. Old Testament Portrait of the Righteous • Walks blamelessly and speaks truth (Psalm 15:1-2). • Delights in God’s law day and night (Psalm 1:2). • Shows mercy and justice in relationships (Proverbs 11:17; Micah 6:8). • Trusts the LORD for deliverance rather than self-reliance (Psalm 37:39-40). What Righteousness Looks Like in Proverbs 12:26 1. Careful Discernment – “Is cautious in friendship” conveys examining, testing, or investigating before bonding with someone. 2. Protective Influence – The righteous shield both themselves and their companions from paths that ruin character (Proverbs 13:20). 3. Moral Leadership – By choosing companions wisely, the righteous quietly guide others toward God-honoring living (Proverbs 11:30). New Testament Echoes • Fulfilled in Christ, “our righteousness” (1 Corinthians 1:30), who perfectly embodies godly discernment (John 2:24-25). • Believers are called “the righteousness of God” in Him (2 Corinthians 5:21), empowered to walk in the same cautious, discerning love (Ephesians 5:15-17). Living the Identity Today • Righteousness begins with right standing before God through faith and expresses itself in everyday choices. • Proverbs 12:26 highlights one practical arena—friendships—where righteousness guards the heart and influences others toward wisdom. |
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