Proverbs 16:6 Meaning and Explanation
“By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Wrongdoing is removed through mercy and truthfulness; fear of the Lord motivates people to abandon evil.
The Context of Proverbs 16:6
The proverb presents two paths to moral healing: one relational and one grounded in reverence for God.
What Does Proverbs 16:6 Mean?
'Mercy and truth' together address iniquity—wrongdoing and guilt. Mercy provides compassion and forgiveness; truth provides honesty and accountability. When iniquity is addressed through both compassion and truthful acknowledgment, it is 'purged'—cleansed away and resolved. This pairing suggests that merely hiding wrongs (without truth) or condemning without mercy (without compassion) is insufficient for genuine moral repair.
'The fear of the LORD' is reverence and awe before God, not terror but respectful submission. This fear is a powerful motivator to depart from evil. When people genuinely regard God with reverence, they are moved to turn away from wickedness. Fear in this sense becomes a protective force, keeping people aligned with righteousness. The second clause shows the result: those who fear God actively leave evil behind.
Frequently Asked Questions About Proverbs 16:6
What does Proverbs 16:6 mean?
Wrongdoing is removed through mercy and truthfulness; fear of the Lord motivates people to abandon evil.
What is the context of Proverbs 16:6?
The proverb presents two paths to moral healing: one relational and one grounded in reverence for God.