Proverbs 13:12
Proverbs 13:12 in Multiple Translations
Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but desire fulfilled is a tree of life.
Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life.
Hope deferred maketh the heart sick; But when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life.
Hope put off is a weariness to the heart; but when what is desired comes, it is a tree of life.
Hope that's delayed makes you feel sick, but a wish that comes true revives you.
The hope that is deferred, is the fainting of the heart: but when the desire commeth, it is as a tree of life.
Hope prolonged is making the heart sick, And a tree of life [is] the coming desire.
Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but when longing is fulfilled, it is a tree of life.
Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life.
Hope that is deferred afflicteth the soul: desire when it cometh is a tree of life.
When people do not receive the things that they are expecting to receive, ◄it causes them to despair/they become very sad►; but if you receive what you are desiring to get, that will be like a tree [MET] whose fruit gives you life (OR, that will cause you to be joyful).
Berean Amplified Bible — Proverbs 13:12
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 13:12 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
תּוֹחֶ֣לֶת
מְ֭מֻשָּׁכָה
מַחֲלָה
לֵ֑ב
וְ/עֵ֥ץ
חַ֝יִּ֗ים
תַּאֲוָ֥ה
בָאָֽה
תּוֹחֶ֣לֶת
tôwcheleth
H8431
hope
N-fs
מְ֭מֻשָּׁכָה
mâshak
H4900
to draw
V-Pual-Inf-c
מַחֲלָה
châlâh
H2470
be weak
V-Hiphil
לֵ֑ב
lêb
H3820
heart
N-ms
וְ/עֵ֥ץ
ʻêts
H6086
tree
Conj | N-ms
חַ֝יִּ֗ים
chay
H2416
alive
N-mp
תַּאֲוָ֥ה
taʼăvâh
H8378
desire
N-fs
בָאָֽה
bôwʼ
H935
Lebo
V-Qal
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
Use ← → arrow keys to navigate between words.
Hebrew Word Reference — Proverbs 13:12
תּוֹחֶ֣לֶת
tôwcheleth
H8431
"hope"
N-fs
This Hebrew word means hope or expectation, referring to a feeling of trust and confidence in something or someone. It is about looking forward to a positive outcome.
Definition: hope
Usage: Occurs in 6 OT verses. KJV: hope. See also: Job 41:1; Proverbs 11:7; Psalms 39:8.
מְ֭מֻשָּׁכָה
mâshak
H4900
"to draw"
V-Pual-Inf-c
To draw can mean many things in the Bible, such as to pull or lead something, to sow seeds, or to make music. It is used in various contexts, including war, farming, and worship. The word is used in different forms throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: 1) to draw, drag, seize 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to draw (and lift out), drag along, lead along, drag or lead off, draw down 1a2) to draw (the bow) 1a3) to proceed, march 1a4) to draw out or give (a sound) 1a5) to draw out, prolong, continue 1a6) to trail (seed in sowing) 1a7) to cheer, draw, attract, gratify 1b) (Niphal) to be drawn out 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to be drawn out, be postponed, be deferred 1c2) to be tall
Usage: Occurs in 36 OT verses. KJV: draw (along, out), continue, defer, extend, forbear, [idiom] give, handle, make (pro-, sound) long, [idiom] sow, scatter, stretch out. See also: Genesis 37:28; Psalms 85:6; Psalms 10:9.
מַחֲלָה
châlâh
H2470
"be weak"
V-Hiphil
To beg or entreat means to ask or pray for something, often with a sense of weakness or sickness, like when someone is grieving or in pain.
Definition: : weak/disabled 1) to be or become weak, be or become sick, be or become diseased, be or become grieved, be or become sorry 1a) (Qal) to be weak, be sick 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to be or become weak, feel weak 1b2) to become sick, become ill 1c) (Niphal) 1c1) to make oneself sick 1c2) to be made sick 1c3) to be tired 1d) (Pual) to be made weak, become weak 1e) (Hithpael) to make oneself sick 1f) (Hiphil) 1f1) to make sore 1f2) to make sick 1f3) to show signs of sickness, become sick 1f4) to grieve 1g) (Hophal) 1g1) to be made sick 1g2) to be wounded
Usage: Occurs in 73 OT verses. KJV: beseech, (be) diseased, (put to) grief, be grieved, (be) grievous, infirmity, intreat, lay to, put to pain, [idiom] pray, make prayer, be (fall, make) sick, sore, be sorry, make suit ([idiom] supplication), woman in travail, be (become) weak, be wounded. See also: Genesis 48:1; Psalms 119:58; Psalms 35:13.
לֵ֑ב
lêb
H3820
"heart"
N-ms
Leb refers to the heart, but also represents feelings, will, and intellect in the Bible. It is used figuratively to describe the center of something, and is often translated as heart or mind. Leb is a complex concept that encompasses emotions and thoughts.
Definition: 1) inner man, mind, will, heart, understanding 1a) inner part, midst 1a1) midst (of things) 1a2) heart (of man) 1a3) soul, heart (of man) 1a4) mind, knowledge, thinking, reflection, memory 1a5) inclination, resolution, determination (of will) 1a6) conscience 1a7) heart (of moral character) 1a8) as seat of appetites 1a9) as seat of emotions and passions 1a10) as seat of courage
Usage: Occurs in 552 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] care for, comfortably, consent, [idiom] considered, courag(-eous), friend(-ly), ((broken-), (hard-), (merry-), (stiff-), (stout-), double) heart(-ed), [idiom] heed, [idiom] I, kindly, midst, mind(-ed), [idiom] regard(-ed), [idiom] themselves, [idiom] unawares, understanding, [idiom] well, willingly, wisdom. See also: Genesis 6:5; 2 Samuel 13:33; Psalms 4:8.
וְ/עֵ֥ץ
ʻêts
H6086
"tree"
Conj | N-ms
This Hebrew word for tree or wood refers to a strong and firm object, like a tree or a wooden plank, as seen in the carpentry work of Jesus' earthly father Joseph in Matthew 13:55.
Definition: : wood 1) tree, wood, timber, stock, plank, stalk, stick, gallows 1a) tree, trees 1b) wood, pieces of wood, gallows, firewood, cedar-wood, woody flax
Usage: Occurs in 289 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] carpenter, gallows, helve, [phrase] pine, plank, staff, stalk, stick, stock, timber, tree, wood. See also: Genesis 1:11; Joshua 9:23; Psalms 1:3.
חַ֝יִּ֗ים
chay
H2416
"alive"
N-mp
In the Bible, this word means life or being alive. It can refer to physical life, like in Genesis 1:20, or spiritual life, like in Psalm 30:5.
Definition: adj 1) living, alive 1a) green (of vegetation) 1b) flowing, fresh (of water) 1c) lively, active (of man) 1d) reviving (of the springtime) Aramaic equivalent: chay (חַי "living" H2417)
Usage: Occurs in 450 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] age, alive, appetite, (wild) beast, company, congregation, life(-time), live(-ly), living (creature, thing), maintenance, [phrase] merry, multitude, [phrase] (be) old, quick, raw, running, springing, troop. See also: Genesis 1:20; Deuteronomy 4:9; 2 Kings 5:16.
תַּאֲוָ֥ה
taʼăvâh
H8378
"desire"
N-fs
This word means desire or longing, and can refer to a positive or negative yearning. In the Bible, it is used to describe the desires of the heart, as seen in Psalm 38:9. It can also imply a delight or satisfaction.
Definition: 1) desire 1a) desire, wish, longings of one's heart 1a1) lust, appetite, covetousness (bad sense) 1b) thing desired, object of desire
Usage: Occurs in 21 OT verses. KJV: dainty, desire, [idiom] exceedingly, [idiom] greedily, lust(ing), pleasant. See also H6914 (קִבְרוֹת הַתַּאֲוָה). See also: Genesis 3:6; Psalms 106:14; Psalms 10:3.
בָאָֽה
bôwʼ
H935
"Lebo"
V-Qal
This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.
Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter
Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.
Study Notes — Proverbs 13:12
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Proverbs 13:12 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 13:12
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 13:12
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 13:12
- Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 13:12
- Ellicott's Commentary on Proverbs 13:12
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 13:12
- Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 13:12
- Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 13:12
- Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 13:12
- Sermons on Proverbs 13:12
Context — A Father’s Discipline
10Arrogance leads only to strife, but wisdom is with the well-advised.
11Dishonest wealth will dwindle, but what is earned through hard work will be multiplied.
12Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but desire fulfilled is a tree of life.
13He who despises instruction will pay the penalty, but the one who respects a command will be rewarded. 14The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, turning one from the snares of death.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | John 16:22 | So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy. |
| 2 | Proverbs 13:19 | Desire fulfilled is sweet to the soul, but turning from evil is detestable to fools. |
| 3 | Psalms 119:81–83 | My soul faints for Your salvation; I wait for Your word. My eyes fail, looking for Your promise; I ask, “When will You comfort me?” Though I am like a wineskin dried up by smoke, I do not forget Your statutes. |
| 4 | Proverbs 11:30 | The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise. |
| 5 | Proverbs 3:18 | She is a tree of life to those who embrace her, and those who lay hold of her are blessed. |
| 6 | Psalms 17:15 | As for me, I will behold Your face in righteousness; when I awake, I will be satisfied in Your presence. |
| 7 | Psalms 69:3 | I am weary from my crying; my throat is parched. My eyes fail, looking for my God. |
| 8 | Genesis 21:6–7 | Then Sarah said, “God has made me laugh, and everyone who hears of this will laugh with me.” She added, “Who would have told Abraham that Sarah would nurse children? Yet I have borne him a son in his old age.” |
| 9 | Psalms 40:2–3 | He lifted me up from the pit of despair, out of the miry clay; He set my feet upon a rock, and made my footsteps firm. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD. |
| 10 | Psalms 143:7 | Answer me quickly, O LORD; my spirit fails. Do not hide Your face from me, or I will be like those who descend to the Pit. |
Proverbs 13:12 Summary
[This verse teaches us that when our hopes and expectations are delayed, it can make us feel sad and disappointed, but when our desires are fulfilled in a way that aligns with God's will, it can bring us great joy and satisfaction, as seen in Proverbs 13:12, similar to the promise in Jeremiah 29:11, where God promises to give us a future and a hope.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to have 'hope deferred'?
Having hope deferred means to have a long-awaited expectation or promise delayed, which can lead to disappointment and heart sickness, as seen in Proverbs 13:12, but this can also be a test of faith, as described in Psalm 27:14, where we are encouraged to wait on the Lord.
How can desire be 'a tree of life'?
When our desires are fulfilled in a way that aligns with God's will, it can bring joy, satisfaction, and a sense of purpose, as stated in Proverbs 13:12, similar to the tree of life in Genesis 2:9, which symbolized eternal life and happiness in the presence of God.
Is it wrong to have desires and hopes?
No, it's not wrong to have desires and hopes, as they can motivate us to work towards our goals and trust in God's providence, but it's essential to ensure our desires are in line with God's will, as taught in Proverbs 3:5-6, and to trust in His timing, as seen in Psalm 37:7.
How can I avoid having my heart become 'sick' due to deferred hope?
To avoid a sick heart, we must learn to wait patiently on the Lord, as encouraged in Isaiah 40:31, and trust in His goodness and sovereignty, as stated in Romans 8:28, even when our hopes are delayed, and to find comfort in His presence, as described in Psalm 16:11.
Reflection Questions
- What are some areas in my life where I have been experiencing 'hope deferred', and how can I trust God in those situations?
- How can I align my desires with God's will, so they can become 'a tree of life' for me?
- What are some biblical examples of people who had to wait on God's timing, and how can I learn from their experiences?
- In what ways can I cultivate patience and trust in God's providence when my hopes are delayed?
Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 13:12
Hope deferred maketh the heart sick,.... That is, the object hoped for; if it is not enjoyed so soon as expected, at least if it is delayed any length of time, the mind becomes uneasy, the heart
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 13:12
Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 13:12
Hope deferred; delays in obtaining that good which a man passionately desireth and hopeth for. The desire; the good desired and expected; acts being oft put for the objects, It is a tree of life; it is most sweet, and satisfactory, and reviving.
Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 13:12
Proverbs 13:12 Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but [when] the desire cometh, [it is] a tree of life.Ver. 12. Hope deferred maketh the heart sick.] Hope’ s hours are full of eternity; and how many see we lie languishing at hope’ s hospital, as he at the pool of Bethesda! Spes interrenis incerti nomen boni spes in divinis nomen est certissimi Hope unfailable is founded upon faith unfeigned. But when the desire cometh.] As come it will to those that wait patiently upon God; for waiting is but hope and trust lengthened. Deo confisi, nunquam confusi. "The vision is but for an appointed time; therefore wait," you shall be well paid for your patience. We are apt to antedate the promises, and to set God a time, as they looked for salvation at summer at furthest. We are short breathed, short spirited. But as God seldom comes at our time, so he never fails at his own; and then he is most sweet, because most seasonable.
Ellicott's Commentary on Proverbs 13:12
(12) A tree of life.—See above, on Proverbs 11:30.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 13:12
Verse 12. Hope deferred maketh the heart sick] When once a good is discovered, want of it felt, strong desire for the possession excited, and the promise of attainment made on grounds unsuspected, so that the reality of the thing and the certainty of the promise are manifest, hope posts forward to realize the blessing. Delay in the gratification pains the mind; the increase of the delay prostrates and sickens the heart; and if delay sickens the heart, ultimate disappointment kills it. But when the thing desired, hoped for, and expected comes, it is a tree of life, עץ חיים ets chaiyim, "the tree of lives;" it comforts and invigorates both body and soul. To the tree of lives, in the midst of the gardens of paradise, how frequent are the allusions in the writings of Solomon, and in other parts of the Holy Scriptures! What deep, and perhaps yet unknown, mysteries were in this tree!
Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 13:12
12. a tree of life] See Proverbs 3:18, note.
Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 13:12
When the desire cometh - The desire comes, it is a tree of life: i. e., the object of our desires is attained. Compare Proverbs 3:18.
Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 13:12
12. Hope deferred — That is, the object of the hope. Maketh the heart sick — Or, maketh a sick heart, because of the disappointments. But when the desire cometh, etc. — That is, when the object of desire is gained.
Sermons on Proverbs 13:12
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Abounding Hope by Alan Martin | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of holding fast to hope in order to strengthen one's soul. He compares the value of a diamond to the value of a mature, consis |
|
21 - More Reflects on Trip to North Korea by Ben Torrey | In this sermon, Ben Torrey reflects on his recent trip to North Korea and shares his new insights about the people and the socialist system in the country. He acknowledges that his |
|
Hell by Thomas Boston | Thomas Boston preaches about the eternal state of the damned in hell, emphasizing the everlasting misery and torment prepared for those who are cursed and sentenced to separation f |
|
The Disease of Misplaced Hope by A.W. Tozer | A.W. Tozer explores the dual nature of hope, describing it as both a precious treasure and a treacherous deceit. He illustrates how misplaced hope can lead to disillusionment, usin |
|
The Triumphs of Love by D.L. Moody | D.L. Moody emphasizes the vital role of hope in the life of a believer, asserting that no one can effectively serve God without it. He reflects on the importance of the Holy Spirit |
|
The Difference Between Happiness and Joy by Shane Idleman | Shane Idleman emphasizes the importance of aligning our desires with God's will to experience true fulfillment and purpose in life. He highlights that material possessions, success |
|
Claiming the Power That Is in Christ by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power and authority that believers have in Christ. He encourages the congregation to claim this power and not be hindered by the forces |