What is the meaning of Proverbs 6:16? There are six things - Solomon opens with a numbered saying, signaling that what follows is precise, memorable, and worth close attention (cf. Proverbs 30:18–19). - The use of “six” alerts the reader that the list is intentional, not random; every item is necessary. - By stating an exact count, the Spirit teaches that sin is never vague; it can be identified and confronted (Romans 7:7). that the LORD hates - “The LORD” (Yahweh) is the covenant God who revealed Himself to Israel (Exodus 3:15). Because He is holy (Isaiah 6:3), He must hate what is unholy (Psalm 5:5; Psalm 11:5). - Hate here speaks of righteous aversion, not petty dislike. It shows God’s moral clarity—He is for what is good and therefore against what destroys good (Romans 12:9). - Knowing what God hates guides believers to the opposite: loving what He loves (Micah 6:8). seven - The sudden shift from six to seven intensifies the warning. In Hebrew thought, seven often marks completeness (Genesis 2:2–3; Proverbs 9:1). - Solomon is saying, “Here is the full picture; don’t miss a single item.” - This structure also invites self-examination: “Which of these might be creeping into my life?” (2 Corinthians 13:5). that are detestable to Him - “Detestable” underscores the strength of God’s reaction; these sins are an offense to His character (Deuteronomy 7:25–26; Isaiah 1:13; Proverbs 11:20). - The following verses spell them out (Proverbs 6:17–19): • “haughty eyes” – pride that looks down on others (James 4:6) • “a lying tongue” – speech that twists truth (Ephesians 4:25) • “hands that shed innocent blood” – violence against the defenseless (Genesis 9:6) • “a heart that devises wicked schemes” – plotting evil in secret (Jeremiah 17:9) • “feet that run swiftly to evil” – eagerness to act on sin (Isaiah 59:7) • “a false witness who pours out lies” – perjury that harms justice (Exodus 20:16) • “a man who stirs up dissension among brothers” – sowing division in community (Titus 3:10–11) - Each item moves from attitude to word to action, showing how sin spreads when unchecked (James 1:14–15). summary Proverbs 6:16 introduces a complete, God-given inventory of sins He actively opposes. By numbering them, stating His hatred, and calling them detestable, Scripture presses us to recognize the seriousness of pride, deceit, violence, scheming, eagerness for evil, false testimony, and division. Because the LORD is holy and loving, He warns us against each of these so that we may repent, pursue righteousness, and walk in harmony with His character (1 John 1:7,9). |
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