Proverbs 20:11 kjv

Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.

Proverbs 20:11 nkjv

Even a child is known by his deeds, Whether what he does is pure and right.

Proverbs 20:11 niv

Even small children are known by their actions, so is their conduct really pure and upright?

Proverbs 20:11 esv

Even a child makes himself known by his acts, by whether his conduct is pure and upright.

Proverbs 20:11 nlt

Even children are known by the way they act,
whether their conduct is pure, and whether it is right.

Proverbs 20 verses

Proverbs 20 11 Meaning

Proverbs 20:11 asserts that a person's true nature, even from a young age, is discernible through their actions. It states that children reveal their inner character—whether it is pure and morally upright—by their conduct. This proverb highlights that deeds are a clear and reliable indicator of one's integrity and moral quality, making discernment possible by observing consistent behavior.

Proverbs 20 11 Context

Proverbs is a book of wisdom, offering divine insight into how to live a life pleasing to God and beneficial to oneself and others. Chapter 20, specifically, presents a collection of individual proverbs on various aspects of wisdom, including the dangers of strong drink (v. 1), the folly of idleness (v. 4), the deceit of the wicked (v. 14), and the importance of just dealings (vv. 10, 23). Verse 11 is situated within this context, emphasizing the principle of discerning character not through mere words or appearance, but through the consistent pattern of one's actions. The original audience would have valued shrewd observation and moral integrity in communal life, and this proverb served as a practical guide for assessing character, particularly noting that even in youth, fundamental moral tendencies become evident.

Proverbs 20 11 Word analysis

• Even (גַּ֤ם, gam): This Hebrew particle functions as an intensifier, emphasizing the surprising or perhaps counterintuitive point. Here, it highlights that even a child, who might be thought of as less developed or transparent, reveals their character through their deeds.
• child (נַ֭עַר, na'ar): This term refers to someone from infancy through youth, up to early adulthood (sometimes even a young servant). Its use here signifies that one's foundational character is observable early in life, long before full maturity. It underscores that underlying moral traits emerge predictably.
• makes himself known (יִתְנַכֶּר־, yitnakker): Derived from the verb נכר (nakar), meaning "to know," "recognize," or "perceive." The Hithpael stem suggests a reflexive action ("makes himself known") or a passive idea ("is recognized/discerned"). This implies that the revelation of character is not always intentional; rather, it's an inherent outcome of one's actions, making it possible for others to discern their true nature.
• by his actions (בְּמַֽעֲלָלָ֗יו, bəma'alālāw): From מַעֲלָל (ma'alal), meaning "deeds," "practices," or "exploits." This word frequently carries a negative connotation in Scripture (e.g., wicked deeds), but here it is used neutrally to denote actions or conduct in general. It highlights that the totality and pattern of one's behavior, not just isolated incidents, are what reveal character.
• by whether his conduct (אִם־... פָּֽעֳלֽוֹ, 'im... po'alô): 'Im means "if" or "whether." פֹּעַל (po'al) refers to "work," "doing," or "conduct." It is similar to ma'alal but often emphasizes the result or outcome of one's activity, framing the subsequent qualities as attributes of the person's way of life.
• is pure (זַ֣ךְ, zakh): Meaning "pure," "clean," "innocent," or "blameless." It refers to moral and spiritual purity, implying an uncorrupted heart and motivations. It points to internal integrity.
• and upright (וְאִם־יָשָׁ֥ר, wə'im-yashar): Yashar means "straight," "right," or "righteous." It denotes conformity to a standard of what is good and proper, especially in moral behavior and dealings with others. It implies honesty, integrity, and adherence to truth and justice.

Words-group by words-group analysis:

• "Even a child makes himself known by his actions": This phrase stresses the inescapable truth that age is not a barrier to the revelation of character. Even young, seemingly simple individuals inherently display who they truly are through what they do, not just what they say or intend. It points to the objective and observable nature of true character.
• "by whether his conduct is pure and upright": This further defines how the child makes himself known, specifically through the moral quality of their behavior. "Pure" points to inner cleanliness and sincerity of motive, while "upright" points to outward conformity to moral rectitude and honesty. The two terms together capture both the internal integrity and the external manifestation of righteousness.

Proverbs 20 11 Bonus section

This proverb serves as a powerful foundational principle for both parenting and personal development. For parents and educators, it emphasizes the importance of teaching and modeling virtuous actions from an early age, knowing that consistent good conduct contributes to the formation of a righteous character. For individuals, it calls for self-reflection: our actions are the most accurate representation of our true selves, and therefore, intentional living aligned with God's word is crucial for developing and demonstrating purity and uprightness. The divine standard of zakh (pure, blameless) points to a state of being untainted by sin, reflecting holiness, while yashar (straight, righteous) implies conformity to God's moral law. The proverb implicitly contrasts true character with outward show or pretense, aligning with the biblical theme that God examines the heart, which is revealed through one's way of life.

Proverbs 20 11 Commentary

Proverbs 20:11 offers a profound insight into human nature and the principle of discernment: a person's character is not merely a hidden inner state, but an observable reality made manifest through their actions. The phrase "even a child" highlights that this truth applies universally, regardless of age or apparent complexity. While adults might try to conceal their true selves, the consistent behavior of children often more transparently reflects their developing character, revealing whether their inner inclinations lead to purity and righteousness or to less commendable traits. This proverb teaches that genuine virtue and integrity are expressed through consistent conduct that is both zakh (pure in motive and heart) and yashar (upright and straight in external manifestation). It serves as a reminder to look beyond words and superficial impressions, trusting deeds as the true barometer of one's spiritual and moral standing. Observing the quality of a child's actions provides early indicators of their potential future path.

Examples:

• A child who consistently shares toys, despite personal desire, reveals an upright character.
• A child who secretly gives food to a hungry animal, unprompted, demonstrates purity of heart.
• A child who takes responsibility for a broken item, even when fear is present, shows integrity.