Proverbs 22:11 kjv

He that loveth pureness of heart, for the grace of his lips the king shall be his friend.

Proverbs 22:11 nkjv

He who loves purity of heart And has grace on his lips, The king will be his friend.

Proverbs 22:11 niv

One who loves a pure heart and who speaks with grace will have the king for a friend.

Proverbs 22:11 esv

He who loves purity of heart, and whose speech is gracious, will have the king as his friend.

Proverbs 22:11 nlt

Whoever loves a pure heart and gracious speech
will have the king as a friend.

Proverbs 22 verses

Proverbs 22 11 Meaning

Proverbs 22:11 teaches that an individual who truly loves purity of heart—meaning a sincere desire for inner integrity and moral cleanness—and whose communication is characterized by grace and winsomeness, will earn the favor and friendship of influential leaders, symbolically represented by the king. This verse underscores the deep connection between one's inner character (purity) and outward expression (gracious speech) in gaining trust and influence, suggesting that these virtues attract respect and provide access to those in authority.

Proverbs 22 11 Context

Proverbs chapter 22 falls within the section often called the "Sayings of the Wise," distinct from the proverbs attributed solely to Solomon, though they carry similar themes of practical wisdom for living righteously. This chapter particularly emphasizes the importance of a good name, avoiding oppression, humility, diligence, and ethical conduct. Verse 11 specifically highlights how inner moral quality combined with outward social grace can lead to influential relationships. The "king" in ancient Near Eastern culture represents the highest human authority, whose favor brought immense benefits and security, while displeasure brought ruin. Therefore, gaining the king's friendship signified protection, provision, and high standing within society.

Proverbs 22 11 Word analysis

• He that loveth (אָהֵב, ʾōhēḇ): A participle meaning "one who loves" or "a lover of." It implies an ongoing, deep affection and preference, not just a casual liking or intellectual acknowledgment. This "love" suggests a core desire and commitment.
• pureness (טֳהָר, ṭāhār): A rarer, noun form derived from ṭāhōr, meaning "purity," "cleanness," "sanctity." It signifies being unblemished, uncontaminated, and unadulterated. This is not merely external ceremonial purity but a deeper, ethical, and moral spotlessness.
• of heart (לֵב, lēḇ): The "heart" in Hebrew thought refers to the whole inner being: the mind, will, intellect, emotions, and conscience. It is the seat of moral choice and spiritual life. Therefore, "pureness of heart" means an uncorrupted inner disposition, motives, and character.
• for the grace (וְחֵן, wəḥēn): Literally "and grace" or "and favor." Ḥēn signifies attractiveness, charm, graciousness, or winsomeness. It describes something that is pleasing and evokes a positive response from others.
• of his lips (שְׂפָתָיו, śəfātāw): Refers to one's speech or communication. The "grace of his lips" means that the words spoken are pleasant, wise, kind, and attractive, having a benevolent and persuasive quality, rather than being abrasive, deceitful, or crude.
• the king (מֶלֶךְ, meleḵ): The ultimate earthly authority figure, representing power, influence, and judgment in ancient societies. This indicates access to, and favor from, positions of high leadership.
• shall be his friend (רֵעֹה, rēʿō): "His friend," "his companion," "his associate." This signifies not merely acquaintance but a relationship of trust, closeness, and mutual respect, which implies significant benefit and protection in a hierarchical society.

Words-group analysis:

• "He that loveth pureness of heart": This phrase highlights the foundational internal virtue. It emphasizes that true moral cleanliness starts from the core of one's being—the desires, intentions, and thoughts. It's not a superficial outward conformity but an inner disposition cherished and pursued.
• "for the grace of his lips": This phrase presents the outward manifestation of the inner purity. A pure heart naturally produces gracious speech. Words flowing from an uncorrupted heart are inherently kind, wise, and charming, gaining favor with those who hear them. The Hebrew structure can be interpreted as either the cause for gracious lips or that gracious lips accompany the love of purity. Both point to the inseparable connection between inward character and outward expression.
• "the king shall be his friend": This is the positive consequence. Such character and communication earn favor from authority. The "king" symbolizes anyone in a position of power, influence, or authority, including, by extension, God Himself as the ultimate Sovereign. It speaks to divine approval and worldly advancement that stems from living a virtuous life.

Proverbs 22 11 Bonus section

The Hebrew phrase ṭāhār-lēḇ (pureness of heart) is quite rare in the Old Testament, making its appearance here significant. It emphasizes the internal spiritual state more than just external actions. Many other proverbs discuss the purity of actions or the uprightness of a path, but here the focus is squarely on the heart. This links well with later New Testament teachings on internal holiness, particularly the Beatitudes where Jesus proclaims blessing on "the pure in heart" (Matt 5:8).

Furthermore, the structure of the proverb implies a dynamic interplay: the love of purity leads to gracious speech, or the gracious speech is the proof of the pure heart. Both interpretations highlight the inseparability of character and conduct. It’s not merely about knowing the right things, but embodying them, where genuine inward transformation is outwardly expressed in speech, leading to favorable human (and divine) relationships. This verse serves as a reminder that the pursuit of inner godliness has tangible, positive outcomes in the relational sphere of life.

Proverbs 22 11 Commentary

Proverbs 22:11 articulates a profound principle of wisdom: that true influence and success are rooted in virtuous character and expressed through gracious communication. The verse establishes a direct causal or consequential link between two qualities and a desirable outcome. First, "pureness of heart" refers to a deeply personal commitment to inner integrity, moral cleanness, and a clear conscience. This purity isn't just a lack of outward sin, but an inward state of holiness, aligning one's thoughts and motives with divine truth. This internal purity, according to the proverb, naturally fosters "grace of lips," meaning speech that is pleasing, thoughtful, kind, and wise. It’s communication that builds up rather than tears down, offering counsel, comfort, and insight with pleasantness. The confluence of these two virtues—inward purity and outward graciousness—is said to attract the "friendship of the king."

In ancient times, the king was the ultimate earthly patron and protector. To have the king as a friend meant having security, honor, and opportunity. Metaphorically, this extends beyond earthly rulers to all positions of influence and, ultimately, to the favor of God Himself, the divine King. The proverb suggests that godly character and sanctified communication make one attractive to both human and divine authorities, granting access and favor that the unrighteous might never attain. It underscores that spiritual qualities have tangible benefits in daily life and leadership, fostering relationships of trust and respect.

Practical usage:

• A leader striving for integrity: A CEO who models ethical behavior (pure heart) and communicates transparently and respectfully (gracious lips) builds loyalty among employees and trust with clients.
• A student navigating academics: A student who approaches learning with sincerity and avoids cheating (pure heart) and interacts respectfully with teachers and peers (gracious lips) is likely to gain their favor and opportunities.
• A community member: An individual known for their honest character and kind, wise words will be sought out for advice and respected by those in authority within their local community.