Meaning of Proverbs 6:17

Proverbs 6:17 lists three of the "six things that the Lord hates; indeed, seven are an abomination to him" (Proverbs 6:16). This verse enumerates specific behaviors that are fundamentally opposed to God's character and the principles of righteous living as understood within the wisdom literature of ancient Israel. The inclusion of "haughty eyes," a "lying tongue," and "hands that shed innocent blood" highlights a progression from internal disposition and verbal deception to violent, irreversible harm, all of which are seen as deeply offensive to divine order and justice. These are not minor transgressions but rather represent a profound corruption of the human spirit and its outward actions, impacting both one's relationship with God and with fellow human beings.

Context and Background

Proverbs 6:16-19 presents a catalog of behaviors considered particularly detestable to God. This passage is part of a larger collection of wisdom sayings designed to instruct readers in the ways of righteousness, prudence, and discernment. The author, traditionally attributed to Solomon, aims to differentiate between the path of wisdom and the path of folly, the latter often characterized by arrogance, deceit, and violence. The listing format emphasizes the gravity and distinctness of each offense, painting a clear picture of what constitutes a life at odds with God's will. The "haughty eyes" represent an inward attitude of pride, while the "lying tongue" and "hands that shed innocent blood" describe outward manifestations of this corrupted disposition that cause direct harm to others.

Key Themes and Messages

The primary themes in this verse are pride, deceit, and violence. "Haughty eyes" directly addresses the sin of pride or arrogance, a disposition that elevates oneself above God and others, disregarding humility and dependence on divine wisdom. The "lying tongue" speaks to the theme of deceit and dishonesty, undermining trust and truth, which are foundational to healthy relationships and a just society. The shedding of "innocent blood" represents the ultimate act of violence and injustice, a transgression that cries out for retribution and signifies a complete disregard for the sanctity of human life, which God Himself esteems. Collectively, these elements depict a person who is internally self-important, externally untrustworthy, and capable of the most grievous harm.

Spiritual Significance and Application

Spiritually, this verse serves as a stark warning against behaviors that alienate individuals from God and their community. The "haughty eyes" are an offense because they mirror the rebellion of Lucifer and stand in direct opposition to the humility Christ exemplified. A "lying tongue" is an offense because God is truth, and deception pollutes His creation and hinders genuine fellowship. The shedding of innocent blood is an offense because life is a divine gift, and its unjust taking is an assault on God's image in humanity. For believers, the application involves cultivating a humble heart, speaking truth in love, and upholding the sanctity of life in all circumstances. It calls for self-examination and a commitment to aligning one's thoughts, words, and actions with God's righteous standards.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This verse fits within the broader biblical narrative by reinforcing the consistent call for righteousness and justice found throughout Scripture. From the Ten Commandments, which explicitly forbid false witness and murder, to the teachings of the prophets denouncing oppression and deceit, the Bible consistently condemns these behaviors. Jesus Himself condemned the hypocrisy of the Pharisees, whose outward piety masked inner pride and deceit, and His teachings on love and forgiveness stand in stark contrast to the violence described. The New Testament emphasizes the transformation of the heart by the Spirit, which naturally leads to the abandonment of pride, lies, and violence, fostering instead humility, truthfulness, and peace.

Analogies

One can understand these offenses through analogies:

• Haughty eyes are like a king who, instead of consulting his advisors and seeking counsel, believes he knows all and dictates policies that harm his subjects due to his own inflated self-importance.
• A lying tongue is like a faulty compass that leads travelers astray, causing them to lose their way and suffer harm, rather than guiding them to safety and their destination.
• Hands that shed innocent blood are like a builder who deliberately demolishes a foundational support of a house, causing its inevitable collapse and destruction.

Relation to Other Verses

Proverbs 6:17 resonates with numerous other biblical passages:

• Pride: Proverbs 16:18 states, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." This echoes the inherent danger and negative outcome associated with haughtiness.
• Lying Tongue: Ephesians 4:25 urges, "Therefore, putting away falsehood, let everyone speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another." This highlights the importance of truth in communal relationships. Revelation 21:8 lists "liars" among those whose place is in the lake of fire, emphasizing the severity of this sin.
• Shedding Innocent Blood: The Sixth Commandment, "You shall not murder" (Exodus 20:13), is a direct prohibition. Proverbs 1:11-12 warns against those who plot evil and shed blood, illustrating the societal disruption and divine displeasure it incurs. The concept of blood crying out from the ground, as in the case of Abel (Genesis 4:10), underscores the gravity of this offense.