Proverbs 11:25
Proverbs 11:25 in Multiple Translations
A generous soul will prosper, and he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.
The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.
The liberal soul shall be made fat; And he that watereth shall be watered also himself.
He who gives blessing will be made fat, but the curser will himself be cursed.
If you're generous, you'll become rich; give someone a drink of water, and you'll be given one in return.
The liberall person shall haue plentie: and he that watereth, shall also haue raine.
A liberal soul is made fat, And whoso is watering, he also is watered.
The liberal soul shall be made fat. He who waters shall be watered also himself.
The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.
The soul which blesseth, shall be made fat: and he that inebriateth, shall be inebriated also himself.
Those who give generously to others will prosper; if you help others, they/someone will help you, too.
Berean Amplified Bible — Proverbs 11:25
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Proverbs 11:25 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
נֶֽפֶשׁ
בְּרָכָ֥ה
תְדֻשָּׁ֑ן
וּ֝/מַרְוֶ֗ה
גַּם
ה֥וּא
יוֹרֶֽא
נֶֽפֶשׁ
nephesh
H5315
soul
N-cs
בְּרָכָ֥ה
Bᵉrâkâh
H1293
blessing
N-fs
תְדֻשָּׁ֑ן
dâshên
H1878
to prosper
V-Pual-Imperf-3fs
וּ֝/מַרְוֶ֗ה
râvâh
H7301
to quench
Conj | V-Hiphil
גַּם
gam
H1571
also
DirObjM
ה֥וּא
hûwʼ
H1931
he/she/it
Pron
יוֹרֶֽא
yârâh
H3384
to shoot
V-Hophal-Imperf-3ms
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
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Hebrew Word Reference — Proverbs 11:25
נֶֽפֶשׁ
nephesh
H5315
"soul"
N-cs
The Hebrew word for soul or living being, used in the Bible to describe the essence of a person or animal. It encompasses the ideas of life, breath, and vitality, and is translated as 'soul' or 'creature' in the KJV. This word is central to biblical concepts of humanity and existence.
Definition: 1) soul, self, life, creature, person, appetite, mind, living being, desire, emotion, passion 1a) that which breathes, the breathing substance or being, soul, the inner being of man 1b) living being 1c) living being (with life in the blood) 1d) the man himself, self, person or individual 1e) seat of the appetites 1f) seat of emotions and passions 1g) activity of mind 1g1) uncertain 1h) activity of the will 1h1) uncertain 1i) activity of the character 1i1) uncertain
Usage: Occurs in 683 OT verses. KJV: any, appetite, beast, body, breath, creature, [idiom] dead(-ly), desire, [idiom] (dis-) contented, [idiom] fish, ghost, [phrase] greedy, he, heart(-y), (hath, [idiom] jeopardy of) life ([idiom] in jeopardy), lust, man, me, mind, mortally, one, own, person, pleasure, (her-, him-, my-, thy-) self, them (your) -selves, [phrase] slay, soul, [phrase] tablet, they, thing, ([idiom] she) will, [idiom] would have it. See also: Genesis 1:20; Leviticus 26:43; Judges 18:25.
בְּרָכָ֥ה
Bᵉrâkâh
H1293
"blessing"
N-fs
In the Bible, a blessing is a gift from God, bringing prosperity and praise. It appears in Genesis and Psalms, where people bless God and each other. This concept is central to Jewish and Christian traditions.
Definition: 1) blessing 2) (source of) blessing 3) blessing, prosperity 4) blessing, praise of God 5) a gift, present 6) treaty of peace
Usage: Occurs in 64 OT verses. KJV: blessing, liberal, pool, present. See also: Genesis 12:2; 2 Kings 5:15; Psalms 3:9.
תְדֻשָּׁ֑ן
dâshên
H1878
"to prosper"
V-Pual-Imperf-3fs
To prosper or be fat is the meaning of this word, which can also mean to anoint or satisfy. It is often used to describe God's blessing and prosperity.
Definition: 1) to be fat, grow fat, become fat, become prosperous, anoint 1a) (Qal) of prosperity (fig.) 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to make fat, anoint 1b2) to find fat (of offering-acceptable) 1b3) to take away ashes (from altar) 1c) (Pual) to be made fat 1d) (Hothpael) to fatten oneself (of Jehovah's sword)
Usage: Occurs in 11 OT verses. KJV: accept, anoint, take away the (receive) ashes (from), make (wax) fat. See also: Exodus 27:3; Proverbs 11:25; Psalms 20:4.
וּ֝/מַרְוֶ֗ה
râvâh
H7301
"to quench"
Conj | V-Hiphil
To quench means to satisfy a strong desire or thirst, like drinking water to fill an empty stomach, and is used in the Bible to describe physical and spiritual satisfaction. It can also mean to be drunk or intoxicated.
Definition: 1) to be satiated or saturated, have or drink one's fill 1a) (Qal) to take one's fill 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to be drunk, be intoxicated 1b2) to drench, water abundantly, saturate 1c) (Hiphil) to saturate, water, cause to drink
Usage: Occurs in 14 OT verses. KJV: bathe, make drunk, (take the) fill, satiate, (abundantly) satisfy, soak, water (abundantly). See also: Psalms 36:9; Isaiah 34:7; Psalms 65:11.
גַּם
gam
H1571
"also"
DirObjM
Also means 'even' or 'too', used for emphasis or to connect ideas, like 'both...and' or 'neither...nor'. It can introduce a climax or show contrast.
Definition: 1) also, even, indeed, moreover, yea 1a) also, moreover (giving emphasis) 1b) neither, neither...nor (with negative) 1c) even (for stress) 1d) indeed, yea (introducing climax) 1e) also (of correspondence or retribution) 1f) but, yet, though (adversative) 1g) even, yea, yea though (with 'when' in hypothetical case) 2) (TWOT) again, alike
Usage: Occurs in 661 OT verses. KJV: again, alike, also, (so much) as (soon), both (so)...and, but, either...or, even, for all, (in) likewise (manner), moreover, nay...neither, one, then(-refore), though, what, with, yea. See also: Genesis 3:6; Exodus 19:9; 1 Samuel 14:21.
ה֥וּא
hûwʼ
H1931
"he/she/it"
Pron
This word is a pronoun meaning 'he', 'she', or 'it', used to refer to a person or thing. It is used in the Bible to emphasize a subject or make it clear who is being talked about.
Definition: pron 3p s 1) he, she, it 1a) himself (with emphasis) 1b) resuming subj with emphasis 1c) (with minimum emphasis following predicate) 1d) (anticipating subj) 1e) (emphasising predicate) 1f) that, it (neuter) demons pron 2) that (with article)
Usage: Occurs in 1693 OT verses. KJV: he, as for her, him(-self), it, the same, she (herself), such, that (...it), these, they, this, those, which (is), who. See also: Genesis 2:11; Genesis 32:19; Exodus 21:3.
יוֹרֶֽא
yârâh
H3384
"to shoot"
V-Hophal-Imperf-3ms
To show or teach something, like pointing it out or shooting an arrow. It is used in Psalms and Proverbs to describe instructing or directing others.
Definition: 1) to shoot, pour 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to shoot arrows 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to shoot at 1b2) part. shooter, archer 1c) to throw water, rain
Usage: Occurs in 75 OT verses. KJV: ([phrase]) archer, cast, direct, inform, instruct, lay, shew, shoot, teach(-er,-ing), through. See also: Genesis 31:51; Job 8:10; Psalms 11:2.
Study Notes — Proverbs 11:25
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Proverbs 11:25 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 11:25
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 11:25
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 11:25
- Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 11:25
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 11:25
- Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 11:25
- Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 11:25
- Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 11:25
- Sermons on Proverbs 11:25
Context — Dishonest Scales
23The desire of the righteous leads only to good, but the hope of the wicked brings wrath.
24One gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds what is right, only to become poor.
25A generous soul will prosper, and he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.
26The people will curse the hoarder of grain, but blessing will crown the one who sells it. 27He who searches out good finds favor, but evil will come to him who seeks it.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Matthew 5:7 | Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. |
| 2 | 2 Corinthians 9:6–9 | Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things, at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written: “He has scattered abroad His gifts to the poor; His righteousness endures forever.” |
| 3 | Isaiah 58:7–11 | Isn’t it to share your bread with the hungry, to bring the poor and homeless into your home, to clothe the naked when you see him, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood? Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will come quickly. Your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the LORD will be your rear guard. Then you will call, and the LORD will answer; you will cry out, and He will say, ‘Here I am.’ If you remove the yoke from your midst, the pointing of the finger and malicious talk, and if you give yourself to the hungry and satisfy the afflicted soul, then your light will go forth in the darkness, and your night will be like noonday. The LORD will always guide you; He will satisfy you in a sun-scorched land and strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail. |
| 4 | Matthew 25:34–35 | Then the King will say to those on His right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave Me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave Me something to drink, I was a stranger and you took Me in, |
| 5 | Isaiah 32:8 | But a noble man makes honorable plans; he stands up for worthy causes. |
| 6 | Proverbs 28:27 | Whoever gives to the poor will not be in need, but he who hides his eyes will receive many curses. |
| 7 | Job 29:13–18 | The dying man blessed me, and I made the widow’s heart sing for joy. I put on righteousness, and it clothed me; justice was my robe and my turban. I served as eyes to the blind and as feet to the lame. I was a father to the needy, and I took up the case of the stranger. I shattered the fangs of the unjust and snatched the prey from his teeth. So I thought: ‘I will die in my nest and multiply my days as the sand. |
| 8 | Job 31:16–20 | If I have denied the desires of the poor or allowed the widow’s eyes to fail, if I have eaten my morsel alone, not sharing it with the fatherless— though from my youth I reared him as would a father, and from my mother’s womb I guided the widow— if I have seen one perish for lack of clothing, or a needy man without a cloak, if his heart has not blessed me for warming him with the fleece of my sheep, |
Proverbs 11:25 Summary
This verse is saying that when we are generous and give to others, we will be blessed and prosper. This doesn't just mean we'll have more money, but we'll have a sense of joy and fulfillment that comes from doing good. As it says in Proverbs 11:24, when we give freely, we gain even more, and as seen in Matthew 10:42, when we give a cup of cold water to someone in need, we are doing it unto Christ. By being generous and refreshing others, we can experience a deeper sense of connection to God and to those around us.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to have a 'generous soul' in Proverbs 11:25?
A generous soul is one that is willing to give freely to others, as seen in Proverbs 11:24, where it says 'One gives freely, yet gains even more.' This kind of generosity is rooted in a trust in God's provision, as expressed in Philippians 4:19, which says 'And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.'
How does refreshing others lead to personal refreshment?
When we refresh others, we are demonstrating love and kindness, which are essential characteristics of a follower of Christ, as seen in John 13:35. This act of love and kindness can bring joy and fulfillment, which in turn refreshes our own spirit, as seen in Galatians 6:2, where it says 'Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.'
Is this verse promising wealth and prosperity to those who are generous?
While Proverbs 11:25 does say that a generous soul will prosper, it's essential to understand that prosperity in the Bible is not limited to material wealth. As seen in Psalm 37:3-4, true prosperity comes from trusting in God and doing good, which can lead to a deeper sense of fulfillment and joy, regardless of our financial situation.
How can I apply this verse to my everyday life?
You can apply this verse by looking for opportunities to give freely to others, whether it's through volunteering, donating to a good cause, or simply being present for someone in need, as seen in Matthew 25:40, where it says 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways I can demonstrate generosity in my daily life, and how might this impact those around me?
- How do I currently prioritize giving to others, and are there areas where I can improve?
- What are some times when I've experienced refreshment or joy as a result of giving to others, and how can I build on those experiences?
- In what ways might my generosity be a reflection of God's character, and how can I use this verse to share the love of Christ with others?
Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 11:25
The liberal soul shall be made fat,.... Or, "the soul of blessing" (c): that is, as the Vulgate Latin version renders it, "the soul which blesseth"; not that merely prays for a blessing upon others,
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 11:25
The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself. The liberal soul shall be made fat; and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 11:25
The liberal soul, Heb. the soul of blessing; that man who is a blessing to others, who blesseth them, i.e. doeth good to them, as blessing is oft used for a gift, as . Shall be made fat; shall be greatly enriched, both with temporal and spiritual blessings. He that watereth shall be watered also himself possibly it is a metaphor from a fountain, which when it poureth forth its waters is instantly filled again, whereas if it be stopped it groweth empty, and the water seeketh another course. Others render it, he shall be a rain, i.e. he shall receive such liberal supplies from God, that he shall be able to pour forth showers of good things upon others.
Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 11:25
Proverbs 11:25 The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.Ver. 25. The liberal soul shall be made fat.] and my "Common Place of Alms."
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 11:25
Verse 25. The liberal soul shall be made fat] He who gives to the distressed, in the true spirit of charity, shall get a hundred fold from God's mercy. How wonderful is the Lord! He gives the property, gives the heart to use it aright, and recompenses the man for the deed, though all the fruit was found from himself! He that watereth] A man who distributes in the right spirit gets more good himself than the poor man does who receives the bounty. Thus it is more blessed to give than to receive.
Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 11:25
25. The liberal soul] Lit. the soul of blessing (ψυχὴεὐλογουμένη, LXX.); the soul that is ready to benefit and bless in will and deed. Comp. “a blessing” = “a gift,” 2 Kings 5:15, and ὁσπείρωνἐπʼ ? εὐλογίαις, 2 Corinthians 9:6.
Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 11:25
Liberal soul - literally, “the soul that blesses,” i. e., gives freely and fully. The similitudes are both of them essentially Eastern.
Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 11:25
25. The liberal soul — Hebrews, the soul of blessing; that is, the man who imparts blessings. Shall be made fat — Richly nourished.
Sermons on Proverbs 11:25
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Testimony - Part 2 by Jackie Pullinger | In this sermon, the speaker shares his experience of being led by God to Hong Kong 18 years ago. He arrived without a plan but prayed for guidance, and God directed him to the city |
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(Basics) 61. Selfishness by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the seriousness of sin and its impact on our lives. He compares sin to various physical ailments, stating that sin is worse than sickness, i |
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A Widow Who Becomes a Channel of God's Power by Otto Koning | Otto Koning shares a powerful testimony about a widow who, despite her poverty, becomes a channel of God's blessings by committing to give everything above her basic needs to suppo |
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The Hitchhiking Story by Otto Koning | In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of hitchhiking and relying on God's provision. He recounts how he was stranded in Columbus and prayed for a ride to continu |
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A Fast for Waters That Do Not Fail (Part 1) by John Piper | In this sermon, the speaker, Doug Nichols, emphasizes the importance of taking action and praying for more missionaries to bring the gospel to children suffering from malnutrition |
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Giving Our Mind to Christ - Part 6 by Zac Poonen | This sermon emphasizes the importance of living a life free from selfishness and pride, urging believers to adopt humility, unselfish love, and generosity towards others. It contra |
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Three Stages Spiritual Growth - Part 6 by Zac Poonen | This sermon emphasizes the importance of allowing the word of God to dwell in us, meditating on it, and making it a part of our lives to overcome sin and Satan. It encourages movin |