Proverbs 23:11
Proverbs 23:11 in Multiple Translations
for their Redeemer is strong; He will take up their case against you.
For their redeemer is mighty; he shall plead their cause with thee.
For their Redeemer is strong; He will plead their cause against thee.
For their saviour is strong, and he will take up their cause against you.
for their Protector is powerful and he will plead their case against you.
For he that redeemeth them, is mightie: he will defend their cause against thee.
For their Redeemer [is] strong, He doth plead their cause with thee.
for their Defender is strong. He will plead their case against you.
For their redeemer is mighty; he will plead their cause with thee.
For their near kinsman is strong: and he will judge their cause against thee.
because Yahweh is strong, and he is like a relative that has the responsibility to defend them, he will stand up in court and argue for them and against you.
Berean Amplified Bible — Proverbs 23:11
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 23:11 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
כִּֽי
גֹאֲלָ֥/ם
חָזָ֑ק
הֽוּא
יָרִ֖יב
אֶת
רִיבָ֣/ם
אִתָּֽ/ךְ
כִּֽי
kîy
H3588
for
Conj
גֹאֲלָ֥/ם
gâʼal
H1350
to redeem
V-Qal | Suff
חָזָ֑ק
châzâq
H2389
strong
Adj
הֽוּא
hûwʼ
H1931
he/she/it
Pron
יָרִ֖יב
rîyb
H7378
to contend
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
רִיבָ֣/ם
rîyb
H7379
strife
N-cs | Suff
אִתָּֽ/ךְ
ʼêth
H854
with
Prep | Suff
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Proverbs 23:11
כִּֽי
kîy
H3588
"for"
Conj
A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.
Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore
Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.
גֹאֲלָ֥/ם
gâʼal
H1350
"to redeem"
V-Qal | Suff
This Hebrew word means redemption, describing the act of a kinsman buying back a relative's property or marrying their widow, as seen in the story of Boaz in Ruth.
Definition: : redeem 1) to redeem, act as kinsman-redeemer, avenge, revenge, ransom, do the part of a kinsman 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to act as kinsman, do the part of next of kin, act as kinsman-redeemer 1a1a) by marrying brother's widow to beget a child for him, to redeem from slavery, to redeem land, to exact vengeance 1a2) to redeem (by payment) 1a3) to redeem (with God as subject) 1a3a) individuals from death 1a3b) Israel from Egyptian bondage 1a3c) Israel from exile 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to redeem oneself 1b2) to be redeemed
Usage: Occurs in 84 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] in any wise, [idiom] at all, avenger, deliver, (do, perform the part of near, next) kinsfolk(-man), purchase, ransom, redeem(-er), revenger. See also: Genesis 48:16; Job 3:5; Psalms 19:15.
חָזָ֑ק
châzâq
H2389
"strong"
Adj
Strong refers to something or someone powerful, but often in a bad sense, like being severe or hard, as translated in the KJV.
Definition: 1) strong, stout, mighty 1a) strong 1a1) severe, sharp, hot 1a2) firm, hard 1b) a strong one (subst)
Usage: Occurs in 54 OT verses. KJV: harder, hottest, [phrase] impudent, loud, mighty, sore, stiff(-hearted), strong(-er). See also: Exodus 3:19; 1 Kings 18:2; Psalms 35:10.
הֽוּא
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.
יָרִ֖יב
rîyb
H7378
"to contend"
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to argue or contend with someone, like in a lawsuit or a heated debate. It is used in various forms, such as physically fighting or verbally complaining. This concept appears in books like Genesis and Exodus.
Definition: 1) to strive, contend 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to strive 1a1a) physically 1a1b) with words 1a2) to conduct a case or suit (legal), sue 1a3) to make complaint 1a4) to quarrel 1b) (Hiphil) to contend against
Usage: Occurs in 59 OT verses. KJV: adversary, chide, complain, contend, debate, [idiom] ever, [idiom] lay wait, plead, rebuke, strive, [idiom] thoroughly. See also: Genesis 26:20; Job 40:2; Psalms 35:1.
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
רִיבָ֣/ם
rîyb
H7379
"strife"
N-cs | Suff
This Hebrew word refers to a dispute or quarrel between people, which can be a physical fight or a verbal argument. It is often used to describe a lawsuit or controversy, and appears in books like Deuteronomy and Job.
Definition: 1) strife, controversy, dispute 1a) strife, quarrel 1b) dispute, controversy, case at law
Usage: Occurs in 60 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] adversary, cause, chiding, contend(-tion), controversy, multitude (from the margin), pleading, strife, strive(-ing), suit. See also: Genesis 13:7; Proverbs 17:1; Psalms 18:44.
אִתָּֽ/ךְ
ʼêth
H854
"with"
Prep | Suff
This Hebrew preposition means 'with' or 'near', indicating a close relationship or physical proximity. It's used in Genesis 1:26 to describe God's relationship with humanity, and in many other places to show connection or closeness.
Definition: 1) with, near, together with 1a) with, together with 1b) with (of relationship) 1c) near (of place) 1d) with (poss.) 1e) from...with, from (with other prep)
Usage: Occurs in 787 OT verses. KJV: against, among, before, by, for, from, in(-to), (out) of, with. Often with another prepositional prefix. See also: Genesis 4:1; Genesis 42:32; Numbers 1:5.
Study Notes — Proverbs 23:11
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Proverbs 23:11 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 23:11
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 23:11
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 23:11
- Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 23:11
- Ellicott's Commentary on Proverbs 23:11
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 23:11
- Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 23:11
- Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 23:11
- Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 23:11
- Sermons on Proverbs 23:11
Context — Saying 11
9Do not speak to a fool, for he will despise the wisdom of your words.
10Do not move an ancient boundary stone or encroach on the fields of the fatherless,
11for their Redeemer is strong; He will take up their case against you.
12Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge. 13Do not withhold discipline from a child; although you strike him with a rod, he will not die.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Proverbs 22:23 | for the LORD will take up their case and will plunder those who rob them. |
| 2 | Job 19:25 | But I know that my Redeemer lives, and in the end He will stand upon the earth. |
| 3 | Jeremiah 51:36 | Therefore this is what the LORD says: “Behold, I will plead your case and take vengeance on your behalf; I will dry up her sea and make her springs run dry. |
| 4 | Psalms 12:5 | “For the cause of the oppressed and for the groaning of the needy, I will now arise,” says the LORD. “I will bring safety to him who yearns.” |
| 5 | Deuteronomy 27:19 | ‘Cursed is he who withholds justice from the foreigner, the fatherless, or the widow.’ And let all the people say, ‘Amen!’ |
| 6 | Exodus 22:22–24 | You must not mistreat any widow or orphan. If you do mistreat them, and they cry out to Me in distress, I will surely hear their cry. My anger will be kindled, and I will kill you with the sword; then your wives will become widows and your children will be fatherless. |
| 7 | Jeremiah 50:33–34 | This is what the LORD of Hosts says: “The sons of Israel are oppressed, and the sons of Judah as well. All their captors hold them fast, refusing to release them. Their Redeemer is strong; the LORD of Hosts is His name. He will fervently plead their case so that He may bring rest to the earth, but turmoil to those who live in Babylon. |
Proverbs 23:11 Summary
[This verse reminds us that God is the strong Redeemer of the fatherless, meaning He protects and defends those who have no one else to care for them. It warns us not to take advantage of or harm the fatherless because God will stand up for them against us. As seen in Psalms 82:3, we are called to 'defend the weak and the fatherless' just as God does. By treating the fatherless with kindness and respect, we reflect God's love and justice, as taught in Proverbs 31:8-9, which encourages us to 'speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves'.]
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Redeemer mentioned in Proverbs 23:11?
The Redeemer mentioned in this verse is God Himself, who watches over and protects the fatherless, as seen in Psalms 68:5, which says God is 'a father to the fatherless'.
Why is it important not to move an ancient boundary stone or encroach on the fields of the fatherless?
It is essential to respect the property and rights of the fatherless because God is their Redeemer and will take up their case against those who wrong them, as also seen in Deuteronomy 27:19, which curses those who pervert justice for the fatherless.
What does it mean for God to 'take up their case'?
For God to take up the case of the fatherless means He will defend and avenge them against those who oppress or wrong them, as indicated in Jeremiah 22:3, where God commands to 'do justice and righteousness, and deliver from the hand of the oppressor him who has been robbed'.
How should this verse influence our behavior towards the fatherless and vulnerable?
This verse should motivate us to treat the fatherless and vulnerable with kindness, respect, and justice, knowing that God is their Advocate and will hold us accountable for our actions towards them, as taught in James 1:27, which says pure religion involves caring for the fatherless.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways I can show respect and care for the fatherless and vulnerable in my community, reflecting God's heart for them?
- How does knowing that God is the Redeemer of the fatherless challenge my perspective on social justice and my role in advocating for those who cannot defend themselves?
- In what ways can I ensure that my actions and decisions do not harm or exploit the fatherless, but instead uphold their rights and dignity as valued by God?
- How can I pray for and support organizations or individuals who are working to protect and care for the fatherless, aligning with God's command to 'do justice'?
Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 23:11
For their Redeemer [is] mighty,.... As he must needs be, since the Lord of hosts is his name; who sympathizes with them, has mercy on them, is their father, and their friend; see Jeremiah 50:34; he
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 23:11
Remove not the old landmark; and enter not into the fields of the fatherless: Enter not into the fields of the fatherless (in order to appropriate their property, as thinking they have none to defend
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 23:11
Their redeemer, Heb. their near kinsman, to whom it belongs to avenge their wrongs, and to recover and maintain their rights, of which see . Thus God is pleased to call himself, to show how much he concerns himself for the relief of oppressed and helpless persons.
Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 23:11
Proverbs 23:11 For their redeemer [is] mighty; he shall plead their cause with thee.Ver. 11. For their Redeemer is mighty.] "The thunder of his power who can understand?" And "who knoweth the power of his wrath?" Oh, "contend not with him that is mightier than thou." God Almighty is. in a special manner the guardian of his orphans, and the great Master of the wards.
Ellicott's Commentary on Proverbs 23:11
(11) Their redeemer is mighty.—They may have no near kinsman (Leviticus 25:25) to redeem their land, yet they have a mighty Deliverer (Exodus 6:6), who will redress their wrongs.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 23:11
Verse 11. For their redeemer is mighty] גאלם goalam, their kinsman. The word means the person who has a right, being next in blood, to redeem a field or estate, alienated from the family, to avenge the blood of a murdered relative, by slaying the murderer; and to take to wife a brother's widow, who had died childless, in order to preserve the family. The strength here mentioned refers to the justness of his claim, the extent of his influence, and the powerful abettors of such a cause. But in reference to the orphans here mentioned, they having no kinsman, God takes up, vindicates, and avenges their cause.
Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 23:11
11. their Redeemer] viz. God, who is “a Father of the fatherless,” Psalms 68:5. The Heb. word is Goel, and there is probably an allusion to the Goel among men, the nearest blood relation, whose duty it was not only to avenge the blood of his kinsman if he had been unjustly slain (Numbers 35:19), but generally to befriend him and espouse his cause (Leviticus 25:25; Rth 3:9; Rth 3:12-13; Rth 4:1; Rth 4:4). He] the word is emphatic; q.d. with Him and not with them thou wilt have to reckon.
Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 23:11
The reason is given for the precept Proverbs 23:10. Their redeemer - See Job 19:25 note. It was the duty of the גאל gā'al, the next of kin, to take on himself, in case of murder, the office of avenger of blood Numbers 35:19.
Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 23:11
10, 11. Remove not… landmark — That which marked the border of the field. Encroach not upon the rights of others, especially of the orphan or other defenceless person. See Proverbs 22:28.
Sermons on Proverbs 23:11
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Three Secrets to Conquer Fear by Josef Tson | In this sermon, the pastor shares a personal experience of being kidnapped and beaten by the secret police. Despite the terrifying situation, he recalls how the Lord gave him the s |
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The 2nd Coming of Jesus - New World Order by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher outlines several end time events that he believes will happen soon. The first event is that Jesus will bring an abrupt end to time and the judgments wi |
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Groans by Vance Havner | In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the wonder of the human body and how it is a masterpiece created by God. He emphasizes the limitations of our physical senses, stating that |
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The Heavenly Race by C.H. Spurgeon | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of running the heavenly race and obtaining the ultimate prize of eternal life in heaven. He compares the race to a life-or-de |
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Living in God's Compound by Otto Koning | In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal testimony of how God transformed his family's life. He talks about how his son repented and became a soul winner after attending a lif |
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Job - Part 2 by John Piper | In this sermon, Job is depicted as a faithful servant of God who endures great suffering and loss. Job responds to his trials by tearing his clothes and falling face down on the gr |
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Paul Before Agrippa - Part 2 by Joshua Daniel | This sermon emphasizes the transformative power of encountering Jesus compared to worldly spectacles or achievements. It highlights the importance of focusing on positive, pure tho |