New International Version Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses. New Living Translation Wounds from a sincere friend are better than many kisses from an enemy. English Standard Version Faithful are the wounds of a friend; profuse are the kisses of an enemy. Berean Standard Bible The wounds of a friend are faithful, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful. Berean Literal Bible Faithful are the wounds of one who loves, and abundant are the kisses of one hating. King James Bible Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful. New King James Version Faithful are the wounds of a friend, But the kisses of an enemy are deceitful. New American Standard Bible Faithful are the wounds of a friend, But deceitful are the kisses of an enemy. NASB 1995 Faithful are the wounds of a friend, But deceitful are the kisses of an enemy. NASB 1977 Faithful are the wounds of a friend, But deceitful are the kisses of an enemy. Legacy Standard Bible Faithful are the wounds of a friend, But deceitful are the kisses of an enemy. Amplified Bible Faithful are the wounds of a friend [who corrects out of love and concern], But the kisses of an enemy are deceitful [because they serve his hidden agenda]. Berean Annotated Bible The wounds of a friend are faithful, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful. Christian Standard Bible The wounds of a friend are trustworthy, but the kisses of an enemy are excessive. Holman Christian Standard Bible The wounds of a friend are trustworthy, but the kisses of an enemy are excessive. American Standard Version Faithful are the wounds of a friend; But the kisses of an enemy are profuse. Contemporary English Version You can trust a friend who corrects you, but kisses from an enemy are nothing but lies. English Revised Version Faithful are the wounds of a friend: but the kisses of an enemy are profuse. GOD'S WORD® Translation Wounds made by a friend are intended to help, but an enemy's kisses are too much to bear. Good News Translation Friends mean well, even when they hurt you. But when an enemy puts his arm around your shoulder--watch out! International Standard Version Wounds from someone who loves are trustworthy, but kisses from an enemy speak volumes. NET Bible Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but the kisses of an enemy are excessive. New Heart English Bible Faithful are the wounds of a friend; although the kisses of an enemy are profuse. Webster's Bible Translation Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleThe wounds of a friend are faithful, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful. World English Bible The wounds of a friend are faithful, although the kisses of an enemy are profuse. Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionThe wounds of a lover are faithful, "" And the kisses of an enemy [are] abundant. Berean Literal Bible Faithful are the wounds of one who loves, and abundant are the kisses of one hating. Young's Literal Translation Faithful are the wounds of a lover, And abundant the kisses of an enemy. Smith's Literal Translation Faithful the wounds of a friend; and abundant the kisses of an enemy. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleBetter are the wounds of a friend, than the deceitful kisses of an enemy. Catholic Public Domain Version The wounds of a loved one are better than the deceitful kisses of a hateful one. New American Bible Trustworthy are the blows of a friend, dangerous, the kisses of an enemy. New Revised Standard Version Well meant are the wounds a friend inflicts, but profuse are the kisses of an enemy. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleBetter are the wounds of a friend than the kisses of an enemy. Peshitta Holy Bible Translated The wounds of a friend are better than the kisses of an enemy. OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917Faithful are the wounds of a friend; But the kisses of an enemy are importunate. Brenton Septuagint Translation The wounds of a friend are more to be trusted than the spontaneous kisses of an enemy. Additional Translations ... Audio Bible (Voice ▾ Musical ▾) Context Do not Boast about Tomorrow…5Better an open rebuke than love that is concealed. 6The wounds of a friend are faithful, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful. 7The soul that is full loathes honey, but to a hungry soul, any bitter thing is sweet.… Cross References The wounds of a friend are faithful, Psalm 141:5 Let the righteous man strike me; let his rebuke be an act of loving devotion. It is oil for my head; let me not refuse it. For my prayer is ever against the deeds of the wicked. Leviticus 19:17 You must not harbor hatred against your brother in your heart. Directly rebuke your neighbor, so that you will not incur guilt on account of him. Proverbs 28:23 He who rebukes a man will later find more favor than one who flatters with his tongue. but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful. 2 Samuel 20:9-10 “Are you well, my brother?” Joab asked Amasa. And with his right hand Joab grabbed Amasa by the beard to kiss him. / Amasa was not on guard against the dagger in Joab’s hand, and Joab stabbed him in the stomach and spilled out his intestines on the ground. And Joab did not need to strike him again, for Amasa was dead. Then Joab and his brother Abishai pursued Sheba son of Bichri. Luke 22:47-48 While He was still speaking, a crowd arrived, led by the man called Judas, one of the Twelve. He approached Jesus to kiss Him. / But Jesus asked him, “Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?” Proverbs 26:24-26 A hateful man disguises himself with his speech, but he lays up deceit in his heart. / When he speaks graciously, do not believe him, for seven abominations fill his heart. / Though his hatred is concealed by deception, his wickedness will be exposed in the assembly. Proverbs 9:8 Do not rebuke a mocker, or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man, and he will love you. Proverbs 25:12 Like an earring of gold or an ornament of fine gold is a wise man’s rebuke to a listening ear. Proverbs 19:25 Strike a mocker, and the simple will beware; rebuke the discerning man, and he will gain knowledge. Proverbs 17:10 A rebuke cuts into a man of discernment deeper than a hundred lashes cut into a fool. Proverbs 20:30 Lashes and wounds scour evil, and beatings cleanse the inmost parts. Proverbs 15:31-32 He who listens to life-giving reproof will dwell among the wise. / He who ignores discipline despises himself, but whoever heeds correction gains understanding. Proverbs 13:18 Poverty and shame come to him who ignores discipline, but whoever heeds correction is honored. Proverbs 12:1 Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid. Matthew 18:15 If your brother sins against you, go and confront him privately. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. Galatians 6:1 Brothers, if someone is caught in a trespass, you who are spiritual should restore him with a spirit of gentleness. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Treasury of Scripture Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful. the wounds 2 Samuel 12:7 And Nathan said to David, Thou art the man. Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, I anointed thee king over Israel, and I delivered thee out of the hand of Saul; Job 5:17,18 Behold, happy is the man whom God correcteth: therefore despise not thou the chastening of the Almighty: … Psalm 141:5 Let the righteous smite me; it shall be a kindness: and let him reprove me; it shall be an excellent oil, which shall not break my head: for yet my prayer also shall be in their calamities. the kisses Proverbs 10:18 He that hideth hatred with lying lips, and he that uttereth a slander, is a fool. Proverbs 26:23-26 Burning lips and a wicked heart are like a potsherd covered with silver dross… 2 Samuel 20:9,10 And Joab said to Amasa, Art thou in health, my brother? And Joab took Amasa by the beard with the right hand to kiss him… deceitful or earnest Jump to Previous Abundant Although Deceitful Enemy Faith Faithful False. Friend Good Hater Kisses Lover Multiplies Trusted WoundsJump to Next Abundant Although Deceitful Enemy Faith Faithful False. Friend Good Hater Kisses Lover Multiplies Trusted WoundsProverbs 27 1. observations of self love5. of true love 11. of care to avoid offenses 23. and of the household care The wounds of a friend are faithful, A true friend loves enough to speak words that may hurt for a moment but guard the soul from greater harm. Biblical friendship involves loyalty, honesty, and a shared concern for obedience to God, as seen in the covenant bond of David and Jonathan (1 Samuel 18:1–4). Faithful correction seeks restoration rather than humiliation. Nathan’s confrontation of David exposed grievous sin, yet it became the means by which David was brought to repentance (2 Samuel 12:1–13). Such counsel reflects the mutual sharpening God intends among His people (Proverbs 27:17) and must be received with humility by those who desire wisdom (Proverbs 9:8–9). Psa 141:5 Let the righteous man strike me; let his rebuke… but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful. Outward warmth can conceal a heart set against another’s good. In the ancient world, a kiss commonly conveyed greeting, affection, honor, or covenant loyalty, making Judas’s kiss in the garden a particularly calculated act of betrayal (Matthew 26:48–49). Flattery and false reassurance may feel kinder than correction, but they lead away from truth and safety. Believers are called to test words and motives by God’s revealed truth rather than by appearances or pleasant speech (1 John 4:1; Proverbs 26:24–26). Jesus proved Himself the faithful Friend who spoke hard truth to His disciples and gave His life for them (John 15:13–15). 2Sa 20:9-10 “Are you well, my brother?” Joab asked Amasa.… Persons / Places / Events 1. SolomonTraditionally regarded as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. He compiled these sayings to impart wisdom and understanding. 2. Friends In the context of this verse, friends are those who genuinely care for our well-being and are willing to offer constructive criticism or correction. 3. Enemies Those who may appear friendly or flattering but have ulterior motives and do not have our best interests at heart. 4. Ancient Israel The cultural and historical backdrop of Proverbs, where community and relationships were central to daily life. 5. Wisdom Literature Proverbs is part of the wisdom literature in the Bible, which includes practical teachings on how to live a life pleasing to God. Teaching Points The Value of Honest FeedbackTrue friends are willing to offer constructive criticism, even if it is painful, because they care about our growth and well-being. Discernment in Relationships We must be discerning about who we allow to influence us, recognizing that not all who flatter us have our best interests at heart. Embracing Correction As believers, we should welcome correction from those who love us, understanding that it is a tool for our spiritual and personal growth. Guarding Against Flattery Be cautious of those who offer excessive praise or flattery, as it may be a sign of deceit or manipulation. Building Trustworthy Friendships Cultivate relationships with those who are willing to speak the truth in love, and strive to be that kind of friend to others. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of Proverbs 27:6?2. How can we discern "wounds from a friend" in our daily relationships? 3. Why are "an enemy's kisses" considered deceitful according to Proverbs 27:6? 4. How does Proverbs 27:6 connect with Jesus' teachings on true friendship? 5. What steps can we take to value honest feedback from loved ones? 6. How can Proverbs 27:6 guide us in choosing trustworthy friends? 7. What does Proverbs 27:6 mean by "wounds from a friend"? 8. How can "faithful are the wounds of a friend" be applied in modern relationships? 9. Why does Proverbs 27:6 contrast "wounds" with "kisses"? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 27? What Does Proverbs 27:6 Mean The wounds of a friend are faithful“The wounds of a friend are faithful” sounds startling, yet it highlights that genuine friendship values truth over comfort. • A real friend loves you enough to confront sin, blind spots, or foolish choices even when it stings (Proverbs 27:17; Galatians 6:1). • David trusted Nathan’s painful rebuke because it saved him from deeper ruin (2 Samuel 12:7-13). • The psalmist welcomes such honesty: “Let a righteous man strike me—it is a kindness” (Psalm 141:5). When correction comes from someone who consistently seeks your good, you can receive it as an act of covenant love, confident that the wound is a surgical cut meant to heal, not a random blow meant to harm. but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful “Kisses” suggest affection, praise, or flattery—but here they hide hostile intent. • Judas greeting Jesus with a kiss (Matthew 26:48-49) perfectly illustrates polished treachery. • Absalom stole Israel’s hearts by embracing and flattering citizens at the gate while plotting against his father (2 Samuel 15:5-6). • Proverbs warns that smooth lips can conceal a malicious heart (Proverbs 26:23-25; Luke 6:26). An enemy’s compliments feel pleasant, yet they lull the unwary into vulnerability. Unlike a friend’s hard truth that safeguards, false praise manipulates for selfish gain. summary Proverbs 27:6 contrasts helpful hurt with harmful sweetness. A faithful friend’s painful honesty protects and matures us; an enemy’s flattering affection masks danger. Seek companions who will speak truth in love, and be that kind of friend yourself, trusting that God uses faithful wounds to refine His people. (6) Faithful are the wounds of a friend—i.e., the “open rebuke” of the previous verse, the “smiting” and “reproof” of Psalm 142:5.The kisses of an enemy are deceitful.—Rather, plentiful, showered upon one, but all meaningless. Verse 6. - Faithful are the wounds of friend. This and the next verse afford examples of the antithetic form of proverb, where the second line gives, as it were, the reverse side of the picture presented by the first. The wounds which a real friend inflicts by his just rebukes are directed by truth and discriminating affection (see Psalm 141:5). But the kisses of an enemy are deceitful. So St. Jerome, Fraudulenta oscula odientis. But the verb here used (עתר) has the meaning, among others, "to be abundant or frequent;" hence it is better to take it in this sense here, as "plentiful, profuse." An enemy is lavish with his Judas kisses to hide his perfidy and hatred. Septuagint, "More to be trusted are the wounds of a friend than the spontaneous (ἑκούσια) kisses of an enemy." "Non omnis qui parcia," wrote St. Augustine ('Ep.,' 48, 'ad Vincent.'), "amicus est, neque omnis qui verberat, inimicus."Parallel Commentaries ... Hebrew The woundsפִּצְעֵ֣י (piṣ·‘ê) Noun - masculine plural construct Strong's 6482: A bruise, wound of a friend אוֹהֵ֑ב (’ō·w·hêḇ) Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular Strong's 157: To have affection f are faithful, נֶ֭אֱמָנִים (ne·’ĕ·mā·nîm) Verb - Nifal - Participle - masculine plural Strong's 539: To confirm, support but the kisses נְשִׁיק֥וֹת (nə·šî·qō·wṯ) Noun - feminine plural construct Strong's 5390: A kiss of an enemy שׂוֹנֵֽא׃ (śō·w·nê) Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular Strong's 8130: To hate [are] deceitful. וְ֝נַעְתָּר֗וֹת (wə·na‘·tā·rō·wṯ) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Nifal - Participle - feminine plural Strong's 6280: To be, abundant Additonal Resources Proverbs 27:6 Blue Letter BibleProverbs 27:6 Bible Gateway Proverbs 27:6 Bible.com Proverbs 27:6 NIV |
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