Proverbs 29:23 Meaning and Explanation
“A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Pride leads to downfall; humility is upheld with honor.
The Context of Proverbs 29:23
Proverbs on pride and humility: pride guarantees a fall; humility guarantees elevation.
What Does Proverbs 29:23 Mean?
Pride—inflated self-regard, the refusal to acknowledge weakness or wrongdoing—sets a trap. The proud person overreaches, alienates others with his arrogance, and ignores warnings. His fall is inevitable and often public because pride blinds him until ruin is at the door.
Humility is the opposite posture: seeing oneself accurately, remaining open to correction, and trusting others. The humble person is upheld—by friends, by God, by the natural order. People respect genuine humility and support the humble. Paradoxically, this realistic self-assessment leads to real honor, while pride's pursuit of honor courts shame.
Frequently Asked Questions About Proverbs 29:23
What does Proverbs 29:23 mean?
Pride leads to downfall; humility is upheld with honor.
What is the context of Proverbs 29:23?
Proverbs on pride and humility: pride guarantees a fall; humility guarantees elevation.