KJV ORIGINAL
A wicked man hardeneth his face: but as for the upright, he directeth his way.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
A wicked person puts on a stubborn, defiant expression, but an upright person carefully considers and plans their path.
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
This verse contrasts how evil people act defiantly and recklessly while good people thoughtfully plan their actions.
📚 Historical Context
This proverb comes from Solomon's collection of wisdom sayings, likely written around 950 BC for training young men in wisdom and character. In ancient Hebrew culture, facial expressions were understood to reveal one's heart condition, and 'hardening the face' meant showing stubborn defiance against correction or authority.
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