Proverbs 16:30 Meaning and Explanation
“He shutteth his eyes to devise froward things: moving his lips he bringeth evil to pass.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →A schemer closes his eyes to focus on evil; his speech brings harm to reality.
The Context of Proverbs 16:30
The proverb shows the deliberate, focused effort of a person committed to wrongdoing.
What Does Proverbs 16:30 Mean?
'He shutteth his eyes to devise froward things'—the person plotting wrongdoing literally closes his eyes, shutting out distractions, and focuses intently on devising (planning, scheming) perverse things. This is concentrated, undistracted effort toward evil. The closing of the eyes is metaphorical for absolute focus, shutting out conscience or awareness of other considerations.
'Moving his lips he bringeth evil to pass'—through speech, through words and promises, the schemer brings his plans from conception into reality. 'Moving his lips' suggests the actual utterance of words—maybe promises, lies, persuasion, or incitement. His speech has the power to transform his internal plotting into external action and harm. Words are his tool for manifesting evil.
Frequently Asked Questions About Proverbs 16:30
What does Proverbs 16:30 mean?
A schemer closes his eyes to focus on evil; his speech brings harm to reality.
What is the context of Proverbs 16:30?
The proverb shows the deliberate, focused effort of a person committed to wrongdoing.