Proverbs 13:17 kjv

A wicked messenger falleth into mischief: but a faithful ambassador is health.

Proverbs 13:17 nkjv

A wicked messenger falls into trouble, But a faithful ambassador brings health.

Proverbs 13:17 niv

A wicked messenger falls into trouble, but a trustworthy envoy brings healing.

Proverbs 13:17 esv

A wicked messenger falls into trouble, but a faithful envoy brings healing.

Proverbs 13:17 nlt

An unreliable messenger stumbles into trouble,
but a reliable messenger brings healing.

Proverbs 13 verses

Proverbs 13 17 Meaning

Proverbs 13:17 declares that an agent lacking integrity, described as "wicked," will inevitably bring about negative consequences, leading to trouble or calamity. In contrast, a reliable and trustworthy representative, identified as "faithful," will successfully facilitate resolution, restoration, and well-being, bringing about beneficial outcomes. The verse highlights the direct correlation between a person's character and the efficacy and impact of their entrusted mission.

Proverbs 13 17 Context

Proverbs 13 is a chapter filled with stark contrasts, consistently opposing the path of the righteous and the wise with that of the wicked and foolish. It presents pairs of virtues and vices, and their corresponding outcomes, emphasizing that character dictates destiny. Themes such as the value of wise instruction (v.1), the dangers of false testimony (v.5), the superiority of diligence over laziness (v.4), and the prosperity of the righteous versus the downfall of the wicked (v.6, 9, 21, 25) permeate the chapter. Verse 17 fits seamlessly into this wisdom paradigm, applying the principle of character-based outcomes to the specific role of a messenger or envoy.

Historically, in ancient Near Eastern societies, messengers and envoys were vital for communication, diplomacy, and trade between rulers, cities, and individuals. Their role often involved conveying critical information, negotiating treaties, or delivering goods. The integrity of these representatives was paramount, as a false or self-serving messenger could incite war, betray agreements, or jeopardize livelihoods. Conversely, a trustworthy envoy could avert conflict, build alliances, and secure prosperity. This verse thus speaks directly to a universally understood and critical societal function.

Proverbs 13 17 Word analysis

• A wicked (רָשָׁע - rasha'): This Hebrew term denotes one who is unrighteous, guilty, morally corrupt, or habitually evil. It describes a fundamental character flaw, indicating that the messenger's failure is not accidental but stems from their intrinsic nature and disposition to disregard truth or the best interests of their sender.
• messenger (מַלְאָךְ - mal'akh): A general term for a delegate, agent, or one who carries a message. While it can also refer to an angel, in this context, it refers to a human representative. This word emphasizes the task of delivering information or performing a duty on behalf of another.
• falls into trouble (יִפֹּול בְּרָעָה - yippol b'ra'ah): Literally "will fall into evil" or "into calamity/harm." This phrase signifies that the wicked messenger will encounter severe negative consequences, not merely inconveniences. It implies self-inflicted harm or the collapse of their mission due to their inherent wickedness and dishonest conduct.
• but a faithful (אֱמוּנִים - emunim): Derived from the root aman, meaning to be firm, trustworthy, or reliable. This term denotes one whose character is dependable, loyal, and steadfast in truth and duty. It speaks of unwavering integrity and commitment to the mission.
• envoy (צִיר - tsiyr): While mal'akh is general, tsiyr specifically refers to a representative with a significant mission, an ambassador or plenipotentiary. This term suggests a higher status, a more critical task, and implies that the messenger carries substantial authority or represents a weighty matter. The faithful nature of such an individual is even more critical.
• brings healing (מַרְפֵּא - marpe'): This word refers to healing, remedy, health, or restoration. In a figurative sense, it means to bring about resolution, reconciliation, peace, and overall well-being. It signifies that the faithful envoy does not merely avoid trouble but actively creates a constructive and beneficial outcome, mending what is broken or fostering flourishing relationships.

Words-group analysis:

• "A wicked messenger falls into trouble": This phrase directly links the corrupt character of the representative ("wicked") with the negative outcome ("falls into trouble"). It highlights that internal depravity inevitably leads to external calamity for both the messenger and their mission.
• "but a faithful envoy brings healing": This contrasting phrase associates the dependable character ("faithful") of a significant delegate ("envoy") with restorative and beneficial results ("brings healing"). It signifies that integrity in representation not only prevents harm but actively cultivates peace, resolution, and prosperity.
• The opposition between "wicked messenger" and "faithful envoy" emphasizes the profound difference in outcome that character makes in any entrusted role, showcasing that the agent's moral standing is critical to the success of their delegation. The "trouble" versus "healing" illustrates the destructive power of deceit compared to the restorative power of truth and integrity.

Proverbs 13 17 Bonus section

The juxtaposition of mal'akh (messenger) and tsiyr (envoy) may subtly emphasize the weightier implications for those in more significant delegated roles. While both carry messages, the tsiyr implies a more formal and critical mission, where the stakes are higher and faithfulness is even more paramount for the widespread "healing" that results. This Proverb is part of a larger collection of wisdom literature that consistently underlines the retributive nature of moral actions; that is, actions rooted in a person's character have consequences that inevitably return to them and affect their environment. It highlights the indispensable virtue of trustworthiness for social cohesion and successful interaction, applying divine standards of truthfulness and integrity to human interpersonal and inter-societal relations.

Proverbs 13 17 Commentary

Proverbs 13:17 distills a core principle of biblical wisdom: character profoundly shapes outcomes, particularly when one acts as a representative. The verse teaches that delegating a task, whether diplomatic, commercial, or personal, is a gamble on the character of the one entrusted. A "wicked messenger"—one whose motives are corrupt, self-serving, or dishonest—is destined to bring about disruption, conflict, and negative consequences, ultimately falling into their own self-made troubles. Their actions undermine trust and lead to the failure of their mission. In sharp contrast, a "faithful envoy"—a person of unwavering integrity, trustworthiness, and loyalty—actively works towards constructive ends. Their diligence and truthfulness result in "healing," symbolizing not merely the avoidance of conflict, but the successful resolution of issues, the building of bridges, and the restoration of harmonious relationships or beneficial situations. This principle holds true across all spheres of life: from international diplomacy and business negotiations to the conduct of individuals representing their family or even conveying the Gospel.

For instance, in diplomacy, a treacherous ambassador can instigate war, while an honest one can secure peace. In business, an unethical agent can ruin a company's reputation, while a trustworthy one can foster profitable relationships. Spiritually, one who distorts God's Word brings confusion and condemnation, but a faithful minister who handles truth rightly brings salvation and spiritual healing. The verse serves as a cautionary tale for those who delegate and an ethical guide for those who are delegated.