KJV ORIGINAL
By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
Through mercy and truth, wrongdoing is cleansed away, and through reverence for the LORD, people turn away from evil.
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
This verse teaches that God's mercy and truth can wash away our sins, and when we have proper respect for God, we naturally avoid doing wrong.
📚 Historical Context
This proverb comes from Solomon's collection of wise sayings, written during Israel's golden age around 950 BC. In ancient Hebrew culture, 'fear of the LORD' didn't mean terror, but rather deep reverence, awe, and respect for God's holiness and authority. The concept of being 'purged' or cleansed from sin was central to Jewish worship through sacrificial offerings.
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