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Proverbs 17:20

Made Simple — Modern English Translation

Translated by Verse Made Simple Editorial
KJV ORIGINAL
He that hath a froward heart findeth no good: and he that hath a perverse tongue falleth into mischief.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE

A person with a stubborn, dishonest heart will never find anything good, and someone who speaks with a twisted, deceitful tongue will fall into trouble.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

This verse warns that having a corrupt heart and speaking dishonestly will lead to finding no good things and falling into trouble.

📚 Historical Context

Proverbs is a book of wisdom literature in the Old Testament, attributed to King Solomon, who ruled Israel around 970-931 BC and was renowned for his God-given wisdom. This verse reflects the ancient Israelite emphasis on moral integrity, warning that a "froward heart" (a deceitful or twisted one) and a "perverse tongue" (dishonest speech) lead to negative outcomes, as these were seen as direct violations of God's standards for righteous living. In the cultural context of the time, such proverbs were used to instruct young people and leaders on practical ethics to foster a stable society.

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