Proverbs 20:11
Proverbs 20:11 in Multiple Translations
Even a young man is known by his actions— whether his conduct is pure and upright.
Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.
Even a child maketh himself known by his doings, Whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.
Even a child may be judged by his doings, if his work is free from sin and if it is right.
Even children reveal what they're like by what they do, whether their actions are good and right.
A childe also is knowen by his doings, whether his worke be pure and right.
Even by his actions a youth maketh himself known, Whether his work be pure or upright.
Even a child makes himself known by his doings, whether his work is pure, and whether it is right.
Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work is pure, and whether it is right.
By his inclinations a child is known, if his works be clean and right.
Even children show by what they do whether they are good or not; they show whether ◄what they do/their behavior► is honest and right or not.
Berean Amplified Bible — Proverbs 20:11
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 20:11 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
גַּ֣ם
בְּ֭/מַעֲלָלָי/ו
יִתְנַכֶּר
נָ֑עַר
אִם
זַ֖ךְ
וְ/אִם
יָשָׁ֣ר
פָּעֳלֽ/וֹ
גַּ֣ם
gam
H1571
also
DirObjM
בְּ֭/מַעֲלָלָי/ו
maʻălâl
H4611
deed
Prep | N-mp | Suff
יִתְנַכֶּר
nâkar
H5234
to recognize
V-Hithpael-Imperf-3ms
נָ֑עַר
naʻar
H5288
youth
N-ms
אִם
ʼim
H518
if
Conj
זַ֖ךְ
zak
H2134
pure
Adj
וְ/אִם
ʼim
H518
if
Conj | Conj
יָשָׁ֣ר
yâshâr
H3477
Jashar
Adj
פָּעֳלֽ/וֹ
pôʻal
H6467
work
N-ms | Suff
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
Use ← → arrow keys to navigate between words.
Hebrew Word Reference — Proverbs 20:11
גַּ֣ם
gam
H1571
"also"
DirObjM
Also means 'even' or 'too', used for emphasis or to connect ideas, like 'both...and' or 'neither...nor'. It can introduce a climax or show contrast.
Definition: 1) also, even, indeed, moreover, yea 1a) also, moreover (giving emphasis) 1b) neither, neither...nor (with negative) 1c) even (for stress) 1d) indeed, yea (introducing climax) 1e) also (of correspondence or retribution) 1f) but, yet, though (adversative) 1g) even, yea, yea though (with 'when' in hypothetical case) 2) (TWOT) again, alike
Usage: Occurs in 661 OT verses. KJV: again, alike, also, (so much) as (soon), both (so)...and, but, either...or, even, for all, (in) likewise (manner), moreover, nay...neither, one, then(-refore), though, what, with, yea. See also: Genesis 3:6; Exodus 19:9; 1 Samuel 14:21.
בְּ֭/מַעֲלָלָי/ו
maʻălâl
H4611
"deed"
Prep | N-mp | Suff
Maalal means a deed or act, which can be good or bad, such as a practice or invention. It is used in the Bible to describe human actions and their consequences. This term is found in various biblical contexts.
Definition: 1) deed, practice 1a) practice (usually bad) 1b) deeds 1c) acts
Usage: Occurs in 41 OT verses. KJV: doing, endeavour, invention, work. See also: Deuteronomy 28:20; Jeremiah 21:12; Psalms 28:4.
יִתְנַכֶּר
nâkar
H5234
"to recognize"
V-Hithpael-Imperf-3ms
To alienate or treat as foreign, as seen in the story of Moses and the Egyptians in Exodus. This verb means to scrutinize or look intently at someone, often with suspicion or disregard. It is used to describe the actions of biblical characters towards others.
Definition: 1) to recognise, acknowledge, know, respect, discern, regard 1a) (Niphal) to be recognised 1b) (Piel) to regard 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to regard, observe, pay attention to, pay regard to, notice 1c2) to recognise (as formerly known), perceive 1c3) to be willing to recognise or acknowledge, acknowledge with honour 1c4) to be acquainted with 1c5) to distinguish, understand 1d) (Hithpael) to make oneself known
Usage: Occurs in 47 OT verses. KJV: acknowledge, [idiom] could, deliver, discern, dissemble, estrange, feign self to be another, know, take knowledge (notice), perceive, regard, (have) respect, behave (make) self strange(-ly). See also: Genesis 27:23; 1 Kings 20:41; Psalms 103:16.
נָ֑עַר
naʻar
H5288
"youth"
N-ms
In the original Hebrew, this word means a young person, either a boy or a girl, from infancy to adolescence. It is used to describe the servants and attendants who worked for kings and other important people in the Old Testament, like King David's servants.
Definition: 1) a boy, lad, servant, youth, retainer 1a) boy, lad, youth 1b) servant, retainer
Usage: Occurs in 221 OT verses. KJV: babe, boy, child, damsel (from the margin), lad, servant, young (man). See also: Genesis 14:24; 1 Samuel 25:5; Psalms 37:25.
אִם
ʼim
H518
"if"
Conj
This Hebrew word is used to express conditions or questions, like if or whether. It can also be used to make oaths or express wishes, as in Oh that! It appears in various forms in the KJV, including if, though, and when.
Definition: : if/whether_or/though 1) if 1a) conditional clauses 1a1) of possible situations 1a2) of impossible situations 1b) oath contexts 1b1) no, not 1c) if...if, whether...or, whether...or...or 1d) when, whenever 1e) since 1f) interrogative particle 1g) but rather
Usage: Occurs in 931 OT verses. KJV: (and, can-, doubtless, if, that) (not), [phrase] but, either, [phrase] except, [phrase] more(-over if, than), neither, nevertheless, nor, oh that, or, [phrase] save (only, -ing), seeing, since, sith, [phrase] surely (no more, none, not), though, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] unless, [phrase] verily, when, whereas, whether, while, [phrase] yet. See also: Genesis 4:7; Exodus 22:3; Leviticus 27:27.
זַ֖ךְ
zak
H2134
"pure"
Adj
In the Bible, this word means being pure and clean, like a clear conscience. It appears in Psalms and Proverbs, describing a person's moral purity. God values purity and wants His people to be clean.
Definition: 1) clean, pure 1a) pure 1b) pure, clean, righteous (fig.) 2) the pure one (subst)
Usage: Occurs in 11 OT verses. KJV: clean, pure. See also: Exodus 27:20; Job 11:4; Proverbs 16:2.
וְ/אִם
ʼim
H518
"if"
Conj | Conj
This Hebrew word is used to express conditions or questions, like if or whether. It can also be used to make oaths or express wishes, as in Oh that! It appears in various forms in the KJV, including if, though, and when.
Definition: : if/whether_or/though 1) if 1a) conditional clauses 1a1) of possible situations 1a2) of impossible situations 1b) oath contexts 1b1) no, not 1c) if...if, whether...or, whether...or...or 1d) when, whenever 1e) since 1f) interrogative particle 1g) but rather
Usage: Occurs in 931 OT verses. KJV: (and, can-, doubtless, if, that) (not), [phrase] but, either, [phrase] except, [phrase] more(-over if, than), neither, nevertheless, nor, oh that, or, [phrase] save (only, -ing), seeing, since, sith, [phrase] surely (no more, none, not), though, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] unless, [phrase] verily, when, whereas, whether, while, [phrase] yet. See also: Genesis 4:7; Exodus 22:3; Leviticus 27:27.
יָשָׁ֣ר
yâshâr
H3477
"Jashar"
Adj
Jashar refers to being straight or just, like doing what is convenient and right. A man named Jashar lived before Israel's monarchy, as mentioned in Joshua 10:13. He wrote a book of poetry and songs, now lost.
Definition: A man living before Israel's Monarchy, first mentioned at Jos.10.13
Usage: Occurs in 119 OT verses. KJV: convenient, equity, Jasher, just, meet(-est), [phrase] pleased well right(-eous), straight, (most) upright(-ly, -ness). See also: Exodus 15:26; Psalms 32:11; Psalms 7:11.
פָּעֳלֽ/וֹ
pôʻal
H6467
"work"
N-ms | Suff
A work or deed is what this word refers to, describing something that has been done or made. It can also mean wages or the result of an action.
Definition: 1) work, deed, doing 1a) deed, thing done 1b) work, thing made 1c) wages of work 1d) acquisition (of treasure)
Usage: Occurs in 38 OT verses. KJV: act, deed, do, getting, maker, work. See also: Deuteronomy 32:4; Psalms 104:23; Psalms 9:17.
Study Notes — Proverbs 20:11
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Proverbs 20:11 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 20:11
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 20:11
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 20:11
- Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 20:11
- Ellicott's Commentary on Proverbs 20:11
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 20:11
- Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 20:11
- Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 20:11
- Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 20:11
- Sermons on Proverbs 20:11
Context — Wine Is a Mocker
9Who can say, “I have kept my heart pure; I am cleansed from my sin”?
10Differing weights and unequal measures — both are detestable to the LORD.
11Even a young man is known by his actions— whether his conduct is pure and upright.
12Ears that hear and eyes that see— the LORD has made them both. 13Do not love sleep, or you will grow poor; open your eyes, and you will have plenty of food.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Matthew 7:16 | By their fruit you will recognize them. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? |
| 2 | Luke 6:43–44 | No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. For each tree is known by its own fruit. Indeed, figs are not gathered from thornbushes, nor grapes from brambles. |
| 3 | Proverbs 21:8 | The way of a guilty man is crooked, but the conduct of the innocent is upright. |
| 4 | Psalms 51:5 | Surely I was brought forth in iniquity; I was sinful when my mother conceived me. |
| 5 | Luke 1:15 | for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He shall never take wine or strong drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit even from his mother’s womb. |
| 6 | Psalms 58:3 | The wicked are estranged from the womb; the liars go astray from birth. |
| 7 | Luke 2:46–47 | Finally, after three days they found Him in the temple courts, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were astounded at His understanding and His answers. |
| 8 | Luke 1:66 | And all who heard this wondered in their hearts and asked, “What then will this child become?” For the Lord’s hand was with him. |
| 9 | Proverbs 22:15 | Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline drives it far from him. |
Proverbs 20:11 Summary
[This verse reminds us that our actions say a lot about who we are and what we value, and that even as young people, we can choose to live in a way that honors God, as seen in Proverbs 20:11. By following God's commands and principles, such as those found in Psalm 119:9-11, we can strive to have pure and upright conduct that reflects our love for Him. As we seek to please God, our actions will become a witness to others of His love and character, as stated in Matthew 5:16. By living in a way that honors God, we can bring glory to Him and point others to His love and salvation.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to be known by our actions?
This verse teaches that our character and integrity are revealed through our actions, as seen in Proverbs 20:11, and that we will be judged by our deeds, as stated in Matthew 25:31-46 and Revelation 20:12-13.
Is it possible for a young person to have pure and upright conduct?
Yes, it is possible for anyone, regardless of age, to strive for pure and upright conduct, as encouraged in Proverbs 20:11 and 1 Timothy 4:12, where Timothy is told to set an example for others in his life and doctrine.
How can we ensure our conduct is pure and upright?
We can ensure our conduct is pure and upright by following God's commands and principles, as outlined in the Bible, such as in Psalm 119:9-11, where it says that we can cleanse our way by taking heed to God's word and seeking to please Him.
What is the importance of having pure and upright conduct?
Having pure and upright conduct is crucial because it reflects our relationship with God and our commitment to following His ways, as seen in Proverbs 20:11, and it can also impact our witness and influence on others, as stated in Matthew 5:16.
Reflection Questions
- What are some areas in my life where my actions may not be reflecting pure and upright conduct, and how can I make changes to align with God's will?
- How can I prioritize seeking God's wisdom and guidance in my daily decisions to ensure my conduct is pleasing to Him?
- What are some ways I can demonstrate pure and upright conduct in my relationships with others, such as in my family, at work, or in my community?
- In what ways can I use my actions and conduct to point others to Christ and reflect His love and character?
Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 20:11
Even a child is known by his doings,.... As well as a man; "ye shall know them by their fruits", Matthew 7:16; professors and profane.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 20:11
Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right. Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work (be) pure, and whether (it be) right.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 20:11
Even a child is known by his doings; young children discover their inclinations or dispositions even by their childish speeches and carriages, as not having yet learnt the art of dissembling. Whether his work be pure; or rather, will be pure; for it is not expressed in the Hebrew, and therefore may be either way supplied. The sense is, The future disposition and conversation of a man may very probably be conjectured from his childish manners.
Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 20:11
Proverbs 20:11 Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work [be] pure, and whether [it be] right.Ver. 11. Even a child is known by his doings, &c.]. Either for the better, as we see in young Joseph, Samson, Samuel, Solomon, Timothy, Athanasius, Origen, &c. It is not a young saint, an old devil; but a young saint, an old angel: - Or, for the worse, as Canaan the son of Ham - who is therefore cursed with his father, because, probably, he had a hand in the sin - Ishmael, Esau, Vajezatha, the youngest son of Haman. Hebricians observe that in the Hebrew this youth’ s name is written with a little zain, but a great vau, to show, that though the youngest, yet he was the most malicious against the Jews of all the ten. Early sharp, say we, that will be thorn. Amama.
Ellicott's Commentary on Proverbs 20:11
(11) Even a child is known by his doings . . .—The disposition soon shews itself; all the more reason, therefore, to train it betimes.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 20:11
Verse 11. Even a child is known by his doings] That is, in general terms, the effect shows the nature of the cause. "A childe is known by his conversation," says Coverdale. A child is easily detected when he has done evil; he immediately begins to excuse and vindicate himself, and profess his innocence, almost before accusation takes place. Some think the words should be understood, every child will dissemble; this amounts nearly to the meaning given above, But probably the principal this intended by the wise man is, that we may easily learn from the child what the man will be. In general, they give indications of those trades and callings for which they are adapted by nature. And, on the whole, we cannot go by a surer guide in preparing our children for future life, than by observing their early propensities. The future engineer is seen in the little handicraftsman of two years old. Many children are crossed in these early propensities to a particular calling, to their great prejudice, and the loss of their parents, as they seldom settle at, or succeed in, the business to which they are tied, and to which nature has given them no tendency. These infantine predilections to particular callings, we should consider as indications of Divine Providence, and its calling of them to that work for which they are peculiarly fitted.
Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 20:11
11. is known] or, maketh himself known; betrays his true character, and gives presage of “his (life’s) work.” Comp. the familiar German proverb, “Was ein Dörnchen werden will spitzt sich bei Zeiten,” Lange.
Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 20:11
The graces or the faults of children are not trifles. “The child is father of the man;” and the earliest actions are prophecies of the future, whether it will be pure and right, or unclean and evil.
Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 20:11
11. Even a child is known by his doings — Known as to character. Even in childhood a sagacious observer may often predict the future development. “A child,” ðòø, (na’har,) a boy, a youth, shows himself, makes known his character.
Sermons on Proverbs 20:11
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
How Do You Represent Christ on Facebook? Tim Conway by Tim Conway | This sermon addresses the importance of how our actions, words, and associations, especially on social media like Facebook, reflect our true identity as Christians. It emphasizes t |
|
The Principle of Nature by J. Hampton Keathley III | J. Hampton Keathley III preaches on the importance of parents knowing and understanding their children intimately, just as God knows and searches us. Drawing from Psalms 139:1-6 an |
|
(True Disciple Conference) We Have Forgotten That the Way Is Narrow by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of building one's life on the Word of God. He challenges the common misconception that building on the sand represents a weak |
|
|
凭他们的果子 - by Their Fruit by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the preacher uses an illustration of arriving late to emphasize the importance of understanding the fallen nature of man. He argues that men are not just sinners, b |
|
|
Shocking Youth Message Stuns Hearers by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the preacher questions why so many people claim to have encountered Jesus Christ but are not permanently changed. He emphasizes the importance of genuine transforma |
|
Beg to Be Filled and Resist Filling by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the preacher addresses the struggles and doubts that believers may face in their journey with God. He emphasizes that those who have experienced defeat and setbacks |
|
(Genesis) Genesis 37:29-33 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Jacob and his son Joseph. Jacob had deceived his own father in the past, and now he is deceived by his own sons who make him bel |