Proverbs 27:19 kjv

As in water face answereth to face, so the heart of man to man.

Proverbs 27:19 nkjv

As in water face reflects face, So a man's heart reveals the man.

Proverbs 27:19 niv

As water reflects the face, so one's life reflects the heart.

Proverbs 27:19 esv

As in water face reflects face, so the heart of man reflects the man.

Proverbs 27:19 nlt

As a face is reflected in water,
so the heart reflects the real person.

Proverbs 27 verses

Proverbs 27 19 Meaning

Proverbs 27:19 articulates a profound truth about human nature, comparing the visible reflection of a face in water to the internal reflection of a person's true character as revealed through their heart. Just as clear water precisely shows the physical countenance, a person's deepest motivations, thoughts, and true identity, which reside in the "heart" (the core of one's being), are made manifest through their actions, words, and choices over time. It underscores that our outer life is a direct consequence and reflection of our inner self.

Proverbs 27 19 Context

Proverbs chapter 27 is a collection of various short, pointed maxims dealing with practical wisdom for daily living, social relationships, and personal conduct. It offers counsel on matters such as boasting, flattery, friendship, honesty, self-control, and the value of constructive criticism. Verse 19 fits into this practical wisdom, moving from external observations about the world (like water reflecting a face) to an internal truth about human nature. The surrounding verses often deal with self-awareness and how one's true nature (or lack of wisdom) is revealed to others (e.g., v. 21, the crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, and a man is tested by his praise).

Culturally, ancient societies in the Near East valued wisdom gained from experience and observation of the natural world. Still bodies of water or polished metal surfaces were common 'mirrors,' providing a literal reflection. This imagery would be readily understood by the original audience, making the analogy clear and potent. There isn't a direct polemic, but the emphasis on internal truth stands in contrast to any outward shows of piety or superficial appearance that might deceive or conceal one's actual character. It subtly warns against hypocrisy, promoting authenticity from within.

Proverbs 27 19 Word analysis

• As (כְּמַיִם - ke'mayim): This particle serves as a comparative, meaning "like," "as," or "just as." It introduces an analogy, setting up a parallel relationship between two distinct concepts.
• water (מַיִם - mayim): Literal water, especially still or calm water. In biblical literature, water often symbolizes purity, truth, and revelation, and here, its clarity in reflection is emphasized. Before manufactured mirrors, clear water was the primary medium for seeing one's reflection.
• reflects (פָּנִים - panim [implicitly], lit. faces): The Hebrew phrasing "water faces faces" (mayim panim el panim) or "water [reveals] faces." The verb "reflects" is implied. The word panim means "face" or "presence." The double use of panim or "face to face" implies a clear, undistorted, direct mirroring, where one's full visage is clearly discernible.
• the face (פָּנִים - panim): The outer physical appearance of a person, what is readily visible to others.
• so (כֵּן - ken): An affirmative adverb reinforcing the analogy, meaning "thus," "so also," or "in the same way." It bridges the gap between the physical comparison and the spiritual truth.
• one’s heart (לֶב־הָאָדָם - lev ha'adam): "Heart of the man" or "man's heart." In biblical anthropology, the lev (heart) is not just the seat of emotions, but the totality of the inner being – intellect, will, conscience, moral character, motivations, and hidden thoughts. It is the core identity.
• reflects (לָאָדָם - la'adam [implicitly], lit. to the man/person): Similar to the first part, the verb "reflects" is implied. The preposition la (to/for) with adam (man/person) means "to the person" or "what is truly revealed of the person." This implies that the true nature of the heart is shown both to the individual themselves (self-awareness) and to others over time.

Words-Group analysis:

• "As water reflects the face": This phrase sets up a tangible, universally observable phenomenon. The clarity and accuracy of the reflection depend on the purity and stillness of the water. This serves as a perfect metaphor for revelation and transparency.
• "so one’s heart reflects the person": This draws the profound parallel. Just as an external, physical appearance is clearly revealed, the internal, true self of a human being (the "heart") is likewise made apparent. The "person" here refers to one's true character, what they genuinely are, internally and externally. This reflection is not merely passive, but manifests through actions, attitudes, words, and lifestyle. It emphasizes the integrated nature of humanity where the internal and external are intrinsically linked.

Proverbs 27 19 Bonus section

The comparison to water reflection suggests a mirror that is inherently pure and provides an undistorted view, unlike ancient metal mirrors which could be tarnished or less clear. This reinforces the idea of the accuracy and truthfulness with which the heart reveals itself. It highlights that the core of who we are is inevitably brought into the light, both to ourselves and to those who observe our lives carefully. This proverb speaks to the integrity, or lack thereof, within an individual, emphasizing that consistent external behavior flows directly from consistent internal nature.

Proverbs 27 19 Commentary

Proverbs 27:19 delivers a fundamental spiritual insight: genuine identity springs from the heart, the epicenter of human thought, will, and affection. The external display of a person – their actions, choices, words, and even their demeanor – are merely outward expressions of their inward being. Just as one cannot easily hide their facial features when looking into still water, it is ultimately impossible for one to perpetually conceal their true character, as it will inevitably become visible through their life.

This verse challenges us to consider our true selves, beyond mere outward appearance or pretense. It teaches that character is not primarily built on external actions but developed from the deep motivations and desires within the heart. It serves as both a profound self-awareness tool and a means of discerning the true nature of others. For example, a person constantly speaking negatively reveals a heart full of bitterness (Lk 6:45), just as one who consistently acts with generosity demonstrates a compassionate heart. This proverb emphasizes that superficiality is unsustainable; genuine life flows from the wellspring of the heart.