Proverbs 15:22 kjv
Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.
Proverbs 15:22 nkjv
Without counsel, plans go awry, But in the multitude of counselors they are established.
Proverbs 15:22 niv
Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.
Proverbs 15:22 esv
Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.
Proverbs 15:22 nlt
Plans go wrong for lack of advice;
many advisers bring success.
Proverbs 15 22 Cross References
| Verse | Text | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Prov 11:14 | Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety. | Safety through many counselors |
| Prov 20:18 | Plans are established by counsel; by wise guidance wage war. | Establishing plans by counsel |
| Prov 24:6 | For by wise guidance you can wage your war, and victory is won through many advisers. | Success in war by wise counsel |
| Prov 1:5 | Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance, | Wise seek guidance |
| Prov 1:7 | The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction. | Fools reject wisdom |
| Prov 12:15 | The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice. | Wise heed advice, fools do not |
| Prov 13:10 | By insolence comes nothing but strife, but with those who take advice is wisdom. | Humility receives wisdom from advice |
| Prov 15:20 | A wise son makes a glad father, but a foolish man despises his mother. | Foolishness disregards wisdom (implicitly counsel) |
| Prov 16:3 | Commit your work to the LORD, and your plans will be established. | Divine establishment of plans |
| Ps 33:10-11 | The LORD brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; he frustrates the plans of the peoples. The counsel of the LORD stands forever, the plans of his heart to all generations. | God's counsel prevails over human plans |
| Ps 1:1 | Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; | Importance of righteous counsel |
| Deut 32:28 | For they are a nation void of counsel, and there is no understanding in them. | Consequence of lacking counsel (national) |
| Isa 9:6 | For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder; and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. | Christ as the ultimate Counselor |
| Isa 28:29 | This also comes from the LORD of hosts; he is wonderful in counsel and excellent in wisdom. | God's supreme counsel |
| Isa 46:10 | declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose,’ | God's counsel stands eternally |
| Jer 29:11 | For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. | God's good plans for His people |
| Luke 14:31-32 | Or what king, going out to encounter another king in war, will not sit down first and deliberate whether he is able with ten thousand... | Deliberation before major undertaking |
| Acts 15:6-29 | The apostles and the elders were gathered together to consider this matter. ...they decided... | Apostolic example of collective decision-making |
| 1 Kgs 12:6-14 | Rehoboam rejects the counsel of the elders and follows young men, leading to division. | Negative example of rejecting wise counsel |
| 2 Sam 16:20-23 | Absalom said to Ahithophel, "Give your counsel. What shall we do?" Now in those days the counsel that Ahithophel gave was as if one consulted the word of God. | Valued counsel's perceived wisdom |
| Jas 1:5 | If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. | Source of divine wisdom for counsel |
| Rom 8:28 | And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. | God's sovereign purpose directs outcomes |
Proverbs 15 verses
Proverbs 15 22 Meaning
This proverb emphasizes the critical role of wise counsel in the success of endeavors. Plans developed in isolation or without sound guidance are prone to failure and dissolution. Conversely, when decisions are formed through the consultation of multiple, trusted advisors, they gain strength, clarity, and are more likely to achieve their intended goals.
Proverbs 15 22 Context
Proverbs is a book of wisdom, offering practical guidance for daily living from a divine perspective. Chapter 15 specifically contrasts the characteristics and outcomes of the wise and the foolish, the righteous and the wicked, in various aspects of life, including speech, conduct, and decision-making. Verse 22 stands as a practical application within this wisdom tradition, emphasizing the value of collective wisdom over isolated thinking. In ancient Israelite society, counsel was vital for kings, judges, and family heads in matters of governance, war, and justice. The historical and cultural context underscored the role of respected elders and wise individuals in offering guidance. The proverb implicitly contrasts against self-reliance born of pride, highlighting that human plans, even if well-intentioned, are prone to failure if they disregard the varied perspectives and insights that multiple advisors can offer.
Proverbs 15 22 Word analysis
- Without counsel (בְּאֵין עֵצָה - b'eyn 'etsah): This phrase literally means "in no counsel" or "absence of advice." 'Etsah (עֵצָה) denotes deliberative guidance, strategic advice, or well-considered planning. Its absence implies a state of thoughtlessness, isolation, or a lack of informed decision-making.
- plans (מַחֲשָׁב֥וֹת - machashavot): This term refers to thoughts, intentions, designs, schemes, or purposes. It encompasses not just fleeting ideas but often deliberate strategies or objectives that individuals or groups intend to implement.
- fail (יָפֵץ - yafeitz): Literally translated as "scatter," "break apart," "frustrate," or "be dispersed." The imagery suggests something solid becoming fragmented, incoherent, and ineffective. It denotes a complete breakdown, leading to the futility of the desired outcome.
- but with many advisers (וּבְרֹ֖ב יוֹעֲצִ֣ים - uvrōv yo'atsim): "And in the multitude of counselors." 'Yôʿēṣîm' (יוֹעֲצִים) are those who provide guidance, insight, and practical suggestions. The emphasis on "many" (rov) signifies the benefits of diverse perspectives, thorough deliberation, and the strength derived from collective wisdom. It implies a comprehensive review of possibilities, potential pitfalls, and alternative pathways.
- they succeed (תָּק֥וּם - takum): This word means "they stand firm," "are established," "are brought to pass," or "endure." It conveys stability, confirmation, and the realization of objectives. It directly contrasts with "fail" (scattered), indicating that the plans are securely founded and reach fruition.
- "Without counsel plans fail": This phrase underscores the detrimental consequences of autonomous or unprepared decision-making. Actions taken without proper forethought, external guidance, or a considered perspective are inherently vulnerable to flaws, unforeseen challenges, and eventual collapse.
- "but with many advisers they succeed": This contrasts the preceding idea, presenting a positive outcome for diligently seeking diverse wisdom. The involvement of a multitude of trusted and wise advisors ensures a more thorough analysis, helps identify blind spots, mitigates biases, and ultimately strengthens the plans for successful implementation. It signifies that robust planning thrives on shared insight and critical evaluation.
Proverbs 15 22 Bonus section
The proverb, while encouraging the pursuit of "many advisors," implicitly assumes these are wise, discerning, and God-fearing individuals. Seeking counsel from foolish, malicious, or ungodly sources can lead to even greater failure or harm. Discernment in selecting advisors is paramount, reflecting the wisdom to choose wisdom. Furthermore, while the proverb highlights the practical benefits of human counsel, ultimate success in the biblical worldview depends on divine blessing and alignment with God's perfect will. Even the most meticulously laid human plans ultimately require God's providence to truly stand and succeed. The emphasis on "many" advisors also speaks to the humility and accountability fostered by not relying solely on one's own limited understanding, promoting a collaborative and less prideful approach to decision-making.
Proverbs 15 22 Commentary
Proverbs 15:22 articulates a profound truth regarding the efficacy of decision-making: the vital need for collaborative wisdom. It serves as a stern warning against isolated, self-reliant planning, which, regardless of intent, is highly susceptible to overlooking crucial details, encountering unforeseen obstacles, and ultimately leading to failure. Conversely, the proverb extols the immense benefit of engaging a diverse group of capable and ethical advisors. This collective discernment allows for a broader perspective, more rigorous scrutiny, and enhanced problem-solving. By considering multiple viewpoints, plans can be refined, potential risks identified and mitigated, and pathways to success clearly illuminated. This wisdom applies universally—from individual life choices to familial harmony, business strategies, and leadership within the body of Christ. Seeking counsel is a hallmark of humility and wisdom.