Proverbs 25:7 kjv

For better it is that it be said unto thee, Come up hither; than that thou shouldest be put lower in the presence of the prince whom thine eyes have seen.

Proverbs 25:7 nkjv

For it is better that he say to you, "Come up here," Than that you should be put lower in the presence of the prince, Whom your eyes have seen.

Proverbs 25:7 niv

it is better for him to say to you, "Come up here," than for him to humiliate you before his nobles. What you have seen with your eyes

Proverbs 25:7 esv

for it is better to be told, "Come up here," than to be put lower in the presence of a noble. What your eyes have seen

Proverbs 25:7 nlt

It's better to wait for an invitation to the head table
than to be sent away in public disgrace.
Just because you've seen something,

Proverbs 25 verses

Proverbs 25 7 Meaning

Proverbs 25:7 advises seeking humility rather than presuming importance. It teaches that true honor and advancement are received when invited to a higher place, not taken by force or self-exaltation. This wisdom promotes discernment in social settings, particularly before those in authority, suggesting that genuine elevation comes through the respectful acknowledgment of one's rightful position and by waiting for a call to ascend. It underscores the principle that self-abasement leads to eventual exaltation by others or by God, while self-promotion results in potential humiliation.

Proverbs 25 7 Context

Proverbs chapter 25 begins a new collection, attributed to "the men of Hezekiah king of Judah, who copied them out" (Prov 25:1). This indicates a later redaction or compilation of Solomon's wisdom, likely during the revival period of King Hezekiah's reign (circa 8th century BCE). These proverbs primarily focus on wise conduct in relation to kings and those in authority, prudent behavior in society, and the use of the tongue. Verses 6 and 7 specifically address the etiquette of interacting with a ruler or person of high rank. This verse is practical advice for court life, stressing the importance of knowing one's place, not seeking unmerited recognition, and avoiding the public disgrace that comes from self-assertion in the presence of nobility. The counsel reflects broader ancient Near Eastern wisdom traditions that emphasized proper decorum and the social hierarchy, yet it grounds this advice in principles that resonate with divine ordering and God's ultimate role in human exaltation or abasement.

Proverbs 25 7 Word analysis

• For it is better: The Hebrew ki tov (כִּי טוֹב) implies a strong preference or an ethical/practical advantage. It sets up a clear contrast between two outcomes, emphasizing the beneficial nature of one over the other. This phrasing is a common rhetorical device in wisdom literature to present prudent choices.
• that it be said to you, 'Come up here,':
  • said to you: Passive voice, suggesting the action is initiated by someone else, specifically by the "noble" (or one in authority), implying their recognition and invitation.
  • 'Come up here,': (עֲלֵה הֵנָּה, ‘aleh hennah) The imperative "come up" signifies elevation, promotion, or being invited to a place of greater honor or proximity to the noble. This implies legitimate recognition, earned respect, or gracious favor, contrasting with self-proclaimed status. The imagery is drawn from sitting positions at banquets or courtly settings where proximity to the host or ruler indicated status.
• than that you be put lower:
  • that you be put lower: (שִׁפְּלָךְ, shippəlekā) Derived from a verb meaning "to put down," "to abase," "to humiliate." It denotes being degraded, demoted, or publicly shamed. The passive voice again emphasizes that this is an action performed by another (the noble) as a corrective measure to a presumptuous act.
• in the presence of a noble: (לִפְנֵי נָדִיב, liphnê naviv)
  • in the presence of: Indicates public visibility and the setting where such judgment or promotion would occur, adding weight to the potential shame or honor.
  • a noble: (נָדִיב, naviv) This term denotes a person of high rank, a prince, or a generous benefactor. Such individuals command respect and authority, and their judgment or favor significantly impacts one's standing. The term also carries a connotation of "willing" or "generous," implying that true nobility includes a disposition towards appropriate action.
• whom your eyes have seen: This phrase emphasizes a direct, personal encounter. It grounds the advice in real-world interactions rather than abstract principles. The "seeing" implies knowledge and acknowledgment of the noble's status and position, making any act of self-exaltation inexcusable.

Proverbs 25 7 Bonus section

This proverb's core message aligns deeply with ancient Israelite values regarding God's sovereignty over status and destiny. Unlike some pagan belief systems where human manipulation or fate dictated outcome, the wisdom literature consistently points to Yahweh as the one who brings low and makes high. The imagery of being "called up" to a higher seat or "put lower" due to presumption finds direct parallel in Jesus' parable of the wedding feast (Lk 14:7-11), which highlights the ethical behavior expected within God's Kingdom. This teaching also guards against the dangers of flattery and false modesty, advocating for a genuine internal disposition of humility that recognizes both one's own proper place and the authority of others, especially God. The ultimate goal is not mere social climbing, but walking in wisdom that honors God and secures lasting favor.

Proverbs 25 7 Commentary

Proverbs 25:7 distills a crucial principle for navigating social and spiritual life: true elevation is given, not taken. It serves as a caution against hubris and a commendation of humility. In an earthly sense, the proverb advises deferential conduct in the presence of authority figures, emphasizing that patient humility and appropriate decorum lead to genuine respect and advancement. To self-exalt or claim a position not rightfully one's own invites public humiliation and demotion, underscoring the adage that "pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall" (Prov 16:18).

The spiritual application of this proverb is profound. The ultimate "noble" is God Himself, the sovereign King who alone grants true promotion and honor. His kingdom operates on an upside-down principle: "Whoever humbles himself will be exalted, and whoever exalts himself will be humbled" (Matt 23:12). God invites the humble to "come up here"—to spiritual understanding, intimacy, and eternal reward. Those who push forward in their own strength, relying on self-righteousness or worldly wisdom, will find themselves "put lower" in His divine economy. The example of Jesus, who humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, and was subsequently highly exalted (Phil 2:5-11), perfectly embodies this Proverbial wisdom. This verse calls believers to embrace humility as a virtue, patiently trusting in God's timing and divine ordering for all true blessings and elevation, whether in this life or the next.

Examples:

• In professional settings: Rather than overtly campaigning for a promotion or boasting about achievements, consistent, humble excellence in one's work often leads to recognition and elevation by superiors.
• In social interactions: Choosing to serve and prioritize others' needs, even when unnoticed, can lead to genuine appreciation and influence, in contrast to seeking the spotlight for oneself.
• In spiritual growth: Approaching God with a humble heart, recognizing one's dependence on Him, invites Him to teach and draw one closer, whereas a prideful spiritual posture blocks true communion.