KJV ORIGINAL
The heart knoweth his own bitterness; and a stranger doth not intermeddle with his joy.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
The heart knows its own pain and sadness; and an outsider cannot fully share in its happiness.
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
This verse is saying that our deepest sorrows and joys are uniquely personal—others can't fully understand or experience what we feel inside.
📚 Historical Context
This proverb comes from Solomon's collection of wise sayings, written around 950 BC for teaching practical wisdom to God's people. In ancient Israel's community-focused culture, this verse acknowledged the reality that despite close relationships, each person has an inner emotional world that remains private. The wisdom literature often explored the balance between community connection and individual experience.
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.
Share or Save