If thou sayest, Behold, we knew it not; doth not he that pondereth the heart consider it? and he that keepeth thy soul, doth not he know it? and shall not he render to every man according to his works?
If you say, 'Look, we didn't know about it,' doesn't the One who understands the heart see right through that? The One who watches over your soul—doesn't He know the truth? Won't He give each person exactly what their actions deserve?
This verse is saying that God sees through our excuses when we claim ignorance to avoid responsibility, and He will judge us based on what we actually do.
📚 Historical Context
This proverb was written during Israel's monarchy when Solomon and other wise teachers were collecting practical wisdom for living righteously. The verse comes in a section warning against failing to help those in danger or need. In ancient Israel, community responsibility was essential for survival, and turning a blind eye to others' suffering was seen as a serious moral failing.
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