What is the meaning of Proverbs 30:13?

There is a generation

• Solomon’s collected wisdom (Proverbs 30:11-14) paints four snapshots of a rebellious people, and verse 13 zooms in on pride.

• “Generation” here points to a recurring type of people, not necessarily an age group—those who persist in arrogance throughout history (cf. Psalm 12:8; Matthew 24:34).

• Scripture warns that every era faces the temptation to elevate self above God (Judges 2:10-12; Romans 1:21-22).

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how haughty are their eyes

• “Haughty” signals overt pride that shows up in the way we look at others—eyes lifted in self-importance (Proverbs 6:16-17 lists “haughty eyes” first among the seven things the Lord hates).

• This inner attitude of superiority:

– Rejects humility commanded in Micah 6:8.

– Mirrors the sin of Satan, who aspired to a throne “above the stars of God” (Isaiah 14:13).

– Provokes God’s opposition, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6).

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pretentious are their glances

• Pride spreads from eyes to “glances”—the daily, subtle interactions that dismiss others and magnify self (Proverbs 21:4).

• Such pretension breeds:

– Contempt for authority (Proverbs 30:11).

– Injustice toward the weak (Proverbs 30:14; Isaiah 3:15).

– Reliance on appearance instead of character (1 Samuel 16:7).

• Jesus confronts this spirit in the Pharisees who “loved the place of honor” (Luke 11:43) and reminds us that “whoever exalts himself will be humbled” (Matthew 23:12).

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summary

Proverbs 30:13 exposes a pattern of proud hearts revealed in lifted eyes and dismissive looks. Each generation faces this sin, but God calls His people to the opposite posture—humble dependence on Him and gracious regard for others. When we choose humility, we invite God’s favor and reflect the character of Christ, “gentle and humble in heart” (Matthew 11:29).