Proverbs 27:5 kjv

Open rebuke is better than secret love.

Proverbs 27:5 nkjv

Open rebuke is better Than love carefully concealed.

Proverbs 27:5 niv

Better is open rebuke than hidden love.

Proverbs 27:5 esv

Better is open rebuke than hidden love.

Proverbs 27:5 nlt

An open rebuke
is better than hidden love!

Proverbs 27 verses

Proverbs 27 5 Meaning

This proverb conveys that forthright correction, even if difficult to hear, is more beneficial than unexpressed affection that withholds necessary truth. True love for a person prompts one to deliver honest feedback for their improvement and well-being, rather than passively observing them make mistakes or endure hardship out of a desire to avoid discomfort or maintain superficial harmony.

Proverbs 27 5 Context

Proverbs chapter 27 focuses on practical wisdom regarding various aspects of human relationships and personal character. It discusses the nature of true friendship, self-control, and the benefits of hard work and honest counsel. Verses 5 and 6 specifically address the qualities of genuine friendship, contrasting sincere but sometimes painful truth with deceptive flattery. This proverb highlights that profound care is demonstrated through intervention for a friend's betterment, even when it requires uncomfortable conversation. Historically, in communal Israelite society, reputation was vital, but true communal flourishing depended on honest interaction.

Proverbs 27 5 Word analysis

• Word by word analysis:

  • "Open" (פְּרוּשָׁה - prusha): From the root parash, meaning to distinguish, explain, make distinct or manifest. Implies clarity, not hidden or veiled. It suggests a direct, unmistakable communication, leaving no room for misunderstanding or ambiguity.
  • "rebuke" (תּוֹכַחַת - tokhaḥat): Signifies correction, reproof, or admonition. This word is often associated with wisdom literature and divine discipline (Prov 1:23; Heb 12:5). It is not mere criticism, but rather an act intended to correct behavior, instruct, and bring one back to the right path. Its purpose is redemptive and corrective, leading to positive change.
  • "is better than" (מֵ - me-): This comparative preposition functions to indicate a preferred choice. It's a common idiomatic construction in Proverbs (e.g., "better is a dry morsel..." Prov 17:1).
  • "hidden" (מְסֻתֶּרֶת - mesutteret): From the root satar, meaning to hide, conceal, or keep secret. It describes something out of sight or unknown. In this context, it implies that the love, though perhaps genuinely felt, remains inactive or unexpressed when action is most needed.
  • "love" (אַהֲבָה - ahavah): The standard Hebrew word for love, encompassing affection, devotion, and attachment. Here, it refers to an internal feeling that, when hidden, fails to manifest itself in beneficial action, specifically in necessary correction or intervention.

• Words-group by words-group analysis:

  • "Open rebuke": This phrase emphasizes the directness and transparency of the corrective act. It implies a confrontation that is clearly articulated and not delivered in a vague or indirect manner. Such a rebuke is given face-to-face, honestly, and without evasion. It embodies courageous truth-telling.
  • "Hidden love": This phrase describes an affection that, while perhaps real in sentiment, is unhelpful because it remains unexpressed, especially when hard truths need to be spoken. This could stem from fear of offending, discomfort with conflict, or simply a passive approach to relationships. It is a love that does not act decisively for the benefit of the beloved, failing to intervene to prevent harm or correct wrongdoing.

Proverbs 27 5 Bonus section

• This proverb champions the kind of authenticity that prioritizes spiritual and personal growth over polite indifference.
• It serves as a counterpoint to flatterers who may seem friendly but do not genuinely care for one's long-term well-being (Prov 28:23).
• The effectiveness of "open rebuke" is tied to its purpose: it must be delivered out of genuine love for the recipient's good, not out of malice, self-righteousness, or anger.
• This verse provides foundational wisdom for pastors, mentors, and parents, highlighting the necessity of loving accountability within any relationship striving for godliness.
• Understanding when and how to deliver an "open rebuke" requires wisdom and discernment, as illustrated by other Proverbs (e.g., avoiding rebuking a mocker). The spirit of restoration and gentleness found in the New Testament (Gal 6:1) completes this principle.

Proverbs 27 5 Commentary

Proverbs 27:5 teaches a profound truth about the nature of genuine relationships: effective love is not always comfortable love. True care demands open and honest communication, even when that communication takes the form of correction or rebuke. A "hidden love" that prioritizes maintaining superficial peace over speaking truth is ultimately deficient and unhelpful. It can allow a friend to continue in error, ignorance, or a path of destruction, essentially doing them a disservice. Conversely, "open rebuke," though it may sting initially, demonstrates deep care because it seeks the betterment, wisdom, and flourishing of the individual. This divine principle underscores that love, if it is to be true and effective, must at times be courageous, bold, and uncomfortable, choosing beneficial confrontation over passive approval. This wisdom applies universally, from personal friendships and family dynamics to the Church's call to mutual edification.