Proverbs 3:30 kjv

Strive not with a man without cause, if he have done thee no harm.

Proverbs 3:30 nkjv

Do not strive with a man without cause, If he has done you no harm.

Proverbs 3:30 niv

Do not accuse anyone for no reason? when they have done you no harm.

Proverbs 3:30 esv

Do not contend with a man for no reason, when he has done you no harm.

Proverbs 3:30 nlt

Don't pick a fight without reason,
when no one has done you harm.

Proverbs 3 verses

Proverbs 3 30 Meaning

Proverbs 3:30 instructs believers to avoid engaging in quarrels, contention, or legal disputes with others when there is no legitimate provocation or actual injury inflicted. It emphasizes the importance of a peaceable disposition and prohibits the initiation of conflict or litigation based on unfounded suspicion, malice, or trivial reasons. The verse promotes a life characterized by harmony and a reluctance to seek confrontation unless a genuine wrong has been committed.

Proverbs 3 30 Context

Proverbs 3:30 is embedded within a section of wisdom instruction from a father to his son, emphasizing trust in the Lord and righteous living. Chapter 3 generally focuses on the blessings that come from living by God's wisdom, including health, prosperity, and peace. After urging generous giving to the Lord and showing kindness to one's neighbor, verses 27-29 specifically counsel against withholding good from those who deserve it, plotting evil against neighbors, and contending without cause. This particular verse (v. 30) extends the concept of peaceable living by cautioning against the initiation of strife or legal disputes when no actual wrong has been committed. It underscores the practical wisdom of maintaining social harmony and avoiding unnecessary conflict within the community, aligning with the broader biblical principle of loving one's neighbor and seeking peace.

Proverbs 3 30 Word analysis

• Strive not: The Hebrew word is רִיב (riv), a verb meaning "to contend," "to quarrel," "to dispute," "to go to law," or "to litigate." It suggests a more formal and serious type of confrontation, ranging from verbal argument to legal action. The imperative "not" indicates a direct prohibition. The wisdom tradition advises against the active initiation of such disputes.
• with a man: The Hebrew term is אִישׁ (ish), referring to an individual person, a fellow human being, or a neighbor in a broad sense. This makes the advice applicable to interactions with anyone in society.
• without cause: This translates the Hebrew word חִנָּם (chinnam). This adverb means "gratis," "for nothing," "in vain," "gratuitously," or "causelessly." It signifies the complete absence of any legitimate reason, provocation, or justification for initiating contention. This is the pivotal condition that renders the strife unacceptable.
• if he have done thee no harm: This clause clarifies the meaning of "without cause." The underlying Hebrew conveys the sense of "if he has done you no evil" or "no injury." The concept of "harm" refers to actual wrong, mischief, injury, or injustice inflicted upon the person. This phrase sets a boundary, suggesting that if genuine harm has occurred, there may be grounds for seeking justice, but even then, it is to be done through appropriate means, not driven by malice or vengeance, and only when necessary.

Words-group by words-group analysis

• Strive not... without cause: This emphasizes that the prohibition is not against all contention or seeking justice, but specifically against unprovoked or unjustified conflict. It highlights the importance of assessing one's motivation and the validity of any grievance before engaging in a dispute.
• ...if he have done thee no harm: This phrase serves as the critical qualification for "without cause." It unequivocally defines what constitutes a lack of legitimate reason: the absence of actual injury, injustice, or wrongdoing against oneself. If no harm has been done, then there is no righteous basis for contention. This promotes patience, forbearance, and a desire for peace in interpersonal relations.

Proverbs 3 30 Bonus section

• Pragmatic Wisdom: Beyond the ethical dimension, this Proverb also offers practical advice for personal well-being. Unnecessary contention consumes energy, causes stress, and can ruin one's reputation and relationships, disrupting peace for all involved. Avoiding it contributes to a more serene and productive life.
• Discernment in Action: The verse calls for discernment. It does not forbid defending truth, seeking righteous justice (when appropriate), or speaking against clear evil (as many other scriptures teach), but it specifically warns against instriving or legal action where no legitimate personal wrong has occurred. The line between righteous indignation and sinful contention is crossed when the cause is absent.
• Contrast to Retaliation: This teaching stands in stark contrast to human tendencies towards quick anger, retribution, or petty grievances. It encourages a disposition that seeks peace rather than conflict, embodying a part of God's character who is slow to anger and abounds in steadfast love.

Proverbs 3 30 Commentary

Proverbs 3:30 offers a practical guideline for ethical and peaceful social conduct. It prohibits initiating disputes or litigation when one has not suffered actual injury or injustice. This isn't merely about avoiding quarrels but about cultivating a heart of peace, refusing to create discord where none exists. The wisdom imparted recognizes that engaging in causeless contention often stems from malice, envy, or a contentious spirit, all of which are contrary to God's nature and the principles of brotherly love. It implies that true wisdom leads one to patiently endure minor irritations, forgive light offenses, and to prioritize harmony over petty disagreements or seeking self-vindication. While justice has its place, this verse teaches restraint, urging individuals to choose reconciliation and peace unless a significant, demonstrable wrong compels action.