Proverbs 18:16
Proverbs 18:16 in Multiple Translations
A man’s gift opens doors for him, and brings him before great men.
A man’s gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.
A man’s gift maketh room for him, And bringeth him before great men.
A man's offering makes room for him, letting him come before great men.
A gift opens doors for you, and gets you into the presence of important people.
A mans gift enlargeth him, and leadeth him before great men.
The gift of a man maketh room for him, And before the great it leadeth him.
A man’s gift makes room for him, and brings him before great men.
A man's gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.
A man’s gift enlargeth his may, and maketh him room before princes.
If you take a gift to an important person, that will open the way to allow you to talk to him.
Berean Amplified Bible — Proverbs 18:16
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Proverbs 18:16 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
מַתָּ֣ן
אָ֭דָם
יַרְחִ֣יב
ל֑/וֹ
וְ/לִ/פְנֵ֖י
גְדֹלִ֣ים
יַנְחֶֽ/נּוּ
מַתָּ֣ן
mattân
H4976
gift
N-ms
אָ֭דָם
ʼâdâm
H120
the man (Adam)
N-ms
יַרְחִ֣יב
râchab
H7337
to enlarge
V-Hiphil-Imperf-3ms
ל֑/וֹ
Prep | Suff
וְ/לִ/פְנֵ֖י
pânîym
H6440
face
Conj | Prep | N-cp
גְדֹלִ֣ים
gâdôwl
H1419
Great (Sea)
Adj
יַנְחֶֽ/נּוּ
nâchâh
H5148
to lead
V-Hiphil-Imperf-3ms | Suff
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
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Hebrew Word Reference — Proverbs 18:16
מַתָּ֣ן
mattân
H4976
"gift"
N-ms
Means a present or gift, often used to describe offerings or rewards, as seen in various KJV translations.
Definition: gifts, offerings, presents
Usage: Occurs in 5 OT verses. KJV: gift, to give, reward. See also: Genesis 34:12; Proverbs 18:16; Proverbs 19:6.
אָ֭דָם
ʼâdâm
H120
"the man (Adam)"
N-ms
Adam was the first human, created by God and mentioned in Genesis 2:19, who married Eve and had sons including Cain, Abel, and Seth.
Definition: The first named man living at the time before the Flood, first mentioned at Gen.2.19; married to Eve (H2332); father of: Cain (H7014B), Abel (H1893) and Seth (H8352); also translated "man" at Gen.2.19,21,23; 3.8,9,20; 5.2; "mankind" at Deu.32.8; "others" at Job.31.33; Another spelling of a.dam (אָדָם "Adam" H0121) man, human being
Usage: Occurs in 526 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] another, [phrase] hypocrite, [phrase] common sort, [idiom] low, man (mean, of low degree), person. See also: Genesis 1:26; Judges 18:7; Psalms 8:5.
יַרְחִ֣יב
râchab
H7337
"to enlarge"
V-Hiphil-Imperf-3ms
To enlarge or grow wide, as in making something bigger or more spacious, like a room or a path. This word is used in various forms throughout the Bible, including in descriptions of God's power and promises. It appears in books like Isaiah and Psalms.
Definition: 1) to be or grow wide, be or grow large 1a) (Qal) to be widened, be enlarged 1b) (Niphal) broad or roomy pasture (participle) 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to make large 1c2) to enlarge
Usage: Occurs in 25 OT verses. KJV: be an en-(make) large(-ing), make room, make (open) wide. See also: Genesis 26:22; Psalms 119:32; Psalms 4:2.
ל֑/וֹ
""
Prep | Suff
וְ/לִ/פְנֵ֖י
pânîym
H6440
"face"
Conj | Prep | N-cp
This word means face or presence, like being in front of someone or something. It's used in many contexts, like in Genesis, Exodus, and Psalms, to describe interactions and relationships.
Definition: : face 1) face 1a) face, faces 1b) presence, person 1c) face (of seraphim or cherubim) 1d) face (of animals) 1e) face, surface (of ground) 1f) as adv of loc/temp 1f1) before and behind, toward, in front of, forward, formerly, from beforetime, before 1g) with prep 1g1) in front of, before, to the front of, in the presence of, in the face of, at the face or front of, from the presence of, from before, from before the face of
Usage: Occurs in 1891 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] accept, a-(be-) fore(-time), against, anger, [idiom] as (long as), at, [phrase] battle, [phrase] because (of), [phrase] beseech, countenance, edge, [phrase] employ, endure, [phrase] enquire, face, favour, fear of, for, forefront(-part), form(-er time, -ward), from, front, heaviness, [idiom] him(-self), [phrase] honourable, [phrase] impudent, [phrase] in, it, look(-eth) (-s), [idiom] me, [phrase] meet, [idiom] more than, mouth, of, off, (of) old (time), [idiom] on, open, [phrase] out of, over against, the partial, person, [phrase] please, presence, propect, was purposed, by reason of, [phrase] regard, right forth, [phrase] serve, [idiom] shewbread, sight, state, straight, [phrase] street, [idiom] thee, [idiom] them(-selves), through ([phrase] -out), till, time(-s) past, (un-) to(-ward), [phrase] upon, upside ([phrase] down), with(-in, [phrase] -stand), [idiom] ye, [idiom] you. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 43:31; Exodus 30:16.
גְדֹלִ֣ים
gâdôwl
H1419
"Great (Sea)"
Adj
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means something or someone great, whether in size, age, or importance. It appears in descriptions of the Great Sea and the Philistines. The word is used to convey a sense of magnitude or grandeur.
Definition: adj great Also named: pe.lish.ti (פְּלִשְׁתִּי "(Sea of the )Philistines" H6430I)
Usage: Occurs in 499 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] aloud, elder(-est), [phrase] exceeding(-ly), [phrase] far, (man of) great (man, matter, thing,-er,-ness), high, long, loud, mighty, more, much, noble, proud thing, [idiom] sore, ([idiom]) very. See also: Genesis 1:16; Joshua 7:26; 1 Kings 20:13.
יַנְחֶֽ/נּוּ
nâchâh
H5148
"to lead"
V-Hiphil-Imperf-3ms | Suff
To lead or guide is the meaning of this Hebrew word, which can also imply transporting people into exile or as colonists. It appears in various forms throughout the Bible, including in Exodus and 1 Kings, to describe leadership and migration.
Definition: 1) to lead, guide 1a) (Qal) to lead, bring 1b) (Hiphil) to lead, guide
Usage: Occurs in 39 OT verses. KJV: bestow, bring, govern, guide, lead (forth), put, straiten. See also: Genesis 24:27; Psalms 31:4; Psalms 5:9.
Study Notes — Proverbs 18:16
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Proverbs 18:16 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 18:16
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 18:16
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 18:16
- Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 18:16
- Ellicott's Commentary on Proverbs 18:16
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 18:16
- Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 18:16
- Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 18:16
- Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 18:16
- Sermons on Proverbs 18:16
Context — The Selfishness of the Unfriendly
14The spirit of a man can endure his sickness, but who can survive a broken spirit?
15The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks it out.
16A man’s gift opens doors for him, and brings him before great men.
17The first to state his case seems right until another comes and cross-examines him. 18Casting the lot ends quarrels and separates strong opponents.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Proverbs 19:6 | Many seek the favor of the prince, and everyone is a friend of the gift giver. |
| 2 | Genesis 43:11 | Then their father Israel said to them, “If it must be so, then do this: Put some of the best products of the land in your packs and carry them down as a gift for the man—a little balm and a little honey, spices and myrrh, pistachios and almonds. |
| 3 | Proverbs 17:8 | A bribe is a charm to its giver; wherever he turns, he succeeds. |
| 4 | Genesis 33:10 | But Jacob insisted, “No, please! If I have found favor in your sight, then receive this gift from my hand. For indeed, I have seen your face, and it is like seeing the face of God, since you have received me favorably. |
| 5 | 1 Samuel 25:27 | Now let this gift your servant has brought to my lord be given to the young men who follow you. |
| 6 | Genesis 32:20 | You are also to say, ‘Look, your servant Jacob is right behind us.’” For he thought, “I will appease Esau with the gift that is going before me. After that I can face him, and perhaps he will accept me. ” |
| 7 | Proverbs 21:14 | A gift in secret soothes anger, and a covert bribe pacifies great wrath. |
Proverbs 18:16 Summary
[This verse means that when we have a special talent or skill, it can create opportunities for us to meet important people and do great things, just like how Daniel's gift of interpreting dreams brought him before kings, as seen in Daniel 1:17-20 and 5:11-12. However, it's essential to remember that our gifts are from God and should be used to serve Him and others, not just to bring us personal recognition or wealth, as taught in 1 Peter 4:10-11. By using our gifts in a way that honors God, we can experience true fulfillment and purpose, as promised in John 10:10. As we seek to use our gifts to serve others, let's remember to stay humble and focused on God's glory, rather than our own, as encouraged in 1 Corinthians 10:31.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of gift is being referred to in Proverbs 18:16?
The gift mentioned in this verse is likely a skill, talent, or ability that a person possesses, as seen in Exodus 31:3 where Bezalel is filled with the Spirit of God to craft beautiful things, and in 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 where spiritual gifts are discussed.
Does this verse promise wealth and fame to those who have a gift?
While having a gift can certainly bring opportunities and recognition, the Bible teaches that true fulfillment and purpose come from serving God and using our gifts for His glory, as seen in Matthew 25:14-30 and 1 Corinthians 10:31.
How can I discover my gift and use it to serve others?
Discovering your gift involves prayer, self-reflection, and seeking feedback from others, as encouraged in Psalm 119:68 and Romans 12:3-8, and using your gift to serve others is a key part of living a life that honors God, as taught in Mark 10:45 and Galatians 5:13.
Is it wrong to desire recognition and praise for my gift?
While it's natural to desire appreciation for our efforts, the Bible warns against seeking praise and glory for ourselves, as seen in Matthew 6:1-4 and 1 Corinthians 4:5, and instead encourages us to seek God's approval and glory, as taught in Galatians 1:10 and 2 Corinthians 5:9.
Reflection Questions
- What are some gifts or abilities that I possess, and how can I use them to serve God and others?
- In what ways can I use my gift to 'open doors' and bring glory to God, rather than seeking my own recognition and praise?
- How can I cultivate a humble and servant-hearted attitude, even as I use my gift to achieve great things?
- What are some potential pitfalls or dangers that I should be aware of as I seek to use my gift to serve others and bring glory to God?
Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 18:16
A man's gift maketh room for him,.... Or "enlarges him" (y); brings him out of prison, or, or out of straits and difficulties with which he, has, been pressed; or it makes way for him to a judge, and
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 18:16
A man's gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men. A man's gift maketh room for him - maketh a clear and wide way for him into the presence of those to whom he desires access.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 18:16
Maketh room for him; procures him free access to great men. Heb. enlargeth him, as this very phrase is rendered, , and elsewhere; freeth him from straits and oppressions. Bringeth him before great men; gets him favour and free conversation with them.
Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 18:16
Proverbs 18:16 A man’ s gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men. Ver. 16. A man’ s gift maketh room for him.] This Jacob knew well, and therefore bade his sons take a present for the governor of the land, though it were but of every good thing a little. So Saul, when to go to the man of God to inquire about the asses; "But behold, said he to his servant, if we go, what shall we bring the man? what have we?"
Ellicott's Commentary on Proverbs 18:16
(16) A man’s gift.—Judicious liberality “maketh room for him,” helps him to make his way through life. (Comp. Luke 16:9, and the advice there given so to use temporal riches as to gain those of heaven.)
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 18:16
Verse 16. A man's gift maketh room for him] It is, and ever has been, a base and degrading practice in Asiatic countries, to bring a gift or present to the great man into whose presence you come. Without this there is no audience, no favour, no justice. This arose from the circumstance that men must not approach the altar of God without an offering. Potentates, wishing to be considered as petty gods, demanded a similar homage: - Munera, crede mihi, capiunt hominesque deosque; Placatur donis Jupiter ipse suis. OVID "Believe me, gifts prevail much with both gods and men: even Jupiter himself is pleased with his own offerings."
Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 18:16
16. Comp. Proverbs 17:8; Proverbs 19:6.
Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 18:16
The “gift” (or, bribe), by a bold personification, appears as the powerful “friend at court,” who introduces another, and makes him welcome in high places.
Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 18:16
16. Maketh room for him — Obtains for him greater liberty and privileges. In the East it has ever been the custom to bring presents to nobles and princes.
Sermons on Proverbs 18:16
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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(Proverbs) ch.18:4 - 19:5 by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the danger of building a crowd of admirers based on generosity, as it can hinder the growth of the body of Christ. The Bible warns that a fal |
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From the Banishment of Archelaus to the Departure of the Jews From Babylon by Flavius Josephus | Flavius Josephus recounts the tumultuous life of King Agrippa, detailing his financial troubles, debts, and his escape from Rome to Judea. Agrippa's friendship with Tiberius Caesar |
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The Peaceable Fruit by Watchman Nee | Watchman Nee explores the transformative journey of Jacob, illustrating how God's discipline reshaped him from a self-serving schemer into a loving and mature individual. Through e |
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A Little Honey Sweet - Gen. 43:11 by Bernard Fell | Bernard Fell preaches on the story of Joseph and his brothers from Genesis 43:11, highlighting the act of kindness and love shown by the sons of Jacob when they carried down a pres |
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Zion's Foundations, Windows, Gates and Boarders by J.C. Philpot | J.C. Philpot preaches about the precious promises of God, emphasizing that these promises are exceedingly great and precious to the church of God only in specific circumstances whe |
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(Genesis) Genesis 32:1-8 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Jacob and his encounter with his brother Esau. Jacob, who had previously been deceitful, is now fearful and distressed upon heari |
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(Genesis) Genesis 32:20-23 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Jacob crossing the brook Jabbok. Jacob is filled with fear and doubt as he prepares to meet his brother Esau, whom he had mistr |