Proverbs 25:6-7
This page isn't yet indexed by search engines.
This isn't just about being humble; it’s about avoiding a painful fall. The original Hebrew suggests "glorifying yourself," warning that trying to elevate your own status before the king or great men will ultimately lead to humiliation, whereas true honor comes from letting others recognize your worth.
Do not put yourself forward in the king’s presence or stand in the place of the great, for it is better to be told, “Come up here,” than to be put lower in the presence of a noble. What your eyes have seen
English Standard Version (ESV)
This proverb appears within a collection of wise sayings, many of which deal with kings and the proper conduct in their courts. The verses immediately surrounding this one offer advice on how to handle accusations and the importance of humility over boastfulness, especially when dealing with those in authority. The context emphasizes that presenting oneself humbly, rather than aggressively seeking status or attention, is the wiser and safer path.
In any setting, especially one with authority, how do you present yourself? Is it with genuine respect or a forced sense of importance?
This proverb warns against seeking prominence or a high status through your own efforts, particularly in the presence of a king or other great individuals. It's not about hiding your talents, but about avoiding the trap of self-aggrandizement.
Avoiding the Spotlight
The original Hebrew suggests not 'glorifying' or 'magnifying' yourself. This means refraining from boastful speech or an arrogant demeanor. It's a call to humility, recognizing your place without needing to 'push yourself forward' or 'stand in the place of the great.' This wisdom applies to any hierarchical situation, whether it's a workplace, a formal gathering, or even family dynamics.
What's the real consequence of seeking a higher status than you deserve? And what is the reward for choosing a lower, humble position?
This proverb, and the parallel in Luke 14, points to a stark contrast: the disgrace of being humbled after acting proud versus the honor of being invited to a higher place after showing humility.
The King's Perspective
When you push yourself into a place of prominence that isn't yours, it creates an awkward and shameful situation. The authority figure (like the king or the master of the feast) is forced to acknowledge your presumption and put you in your rightful, lower place. This is a public humiliation.
Ask a follow-up
Conversely, starting in a lower, humble position demonstrates wisdom and respect. It allows others, who are in a position to judge, to elevate you. This elevation is genuine honor because it comes from recognition, not self-assertion.
Understand the original words
melek · Hebrew Noun
A ruler or sovereign invested with supreme authority; in biblical wisdom literature, it represents the highest human authority, often used as a metaphor for divine authority and the need for wisdom in one's conduct before such power.
gadol · Hebrew Adjective/Noun
Referring to individuals of high rank, authority, or social status; in wisdom literature, it denotes those who have influence and deserve respect, emphasizing the importance of humility in the company of the powerful.
nadib · Hebrew Noun
A person of high rank or elevated position; the term implies someone of prestige and influence, often suggesting that one's behavior before such a person is a test of character and social wisdom.
Jesus directly echoes this Proverb, warning against seeking the place of honor at a banquet, as it can lead to public embarrassment.
Matthew 6:1This passage speaks to the heart behind seeking prominence, cautioning against performing righteous deeds to be seen and praised by others, a similar motive to 'putting oneself forward'.
1 Samuel 15:17This highlights the danger of pride and self-importance, as Samuel reminds Saul that even though he saw himself as small, he had become the head of the tribes of Israel, yet he still acted foolishly.
Philippians 2:3This New Testament passage offers the counter-spirit to the warning in Proverbs, urging believers to consider others better than themselves and not merely look out for their own interests, promoting humility over self-advancement.
pooleProverbs 25:6: "Put not forth thyself in the presence of the king, and stand not in the place of great men:"
Put not forth thyself, Heb. Do not magnify or glorify thyself , by vaunting speech or carriage, but, which is implied, carry thyself humbly and modestly, which is most pleasing to kings, and most becoming and safe for them. Stand not in the place of great men; do not affect nor use frequent and familiar society with greater persons than thyself, whereby thou mayst easily involve thyself…
bensonProverbs 25:6: "Put not forth thyself in the presence of the king, and stand not in the place of great men:"
Proverbs 25:6-7 . Put not forth thyself in the presence of the king — Hebrew, אל תתהדר , do not magnify, or glorify thyself, before the king; namely, by vaunting or vain-glorious speech, or behaviour; but, which is implied, conduct thyself in an humble and modest manner, which is most pleasing to kings, princes, and other superiors, and most becoming and safe for thee; and stand not in t…
This isn't just about being humble; it’s about avoiding a painful fall. The original Hebrew suggests "glorifying yourself," warning that trying to elevate your own status before the king or great men will ultimately lead to humiliation, whereas true honor comes from letting others recognize your worth.
This proverb appears within a collection of wise sayings, many of which deal with kings and the proper conduct in their courts. The verses immediately surrounding this one offer advice on how to handle accusations and the importance of humility over boastfulness, especially when dealing with those in authority. The context emphasizes that presenting oneself humbly, rather than aggressively seeking status or attention, is the wiser and safer path.
This proverb appears within a collection of wise sayings, many of which deal with kings and the proper conduct in their courts. The verses immediately surrounding this one offer advice on how to handle accusations and the importance of humility over boastfulness, especially when dealing with those in authority. The context emphasizes that presenting oneself humbly, rather than aggressively seeking status or attention, is the wiser and safer path.
"Do not put yourself forward in the king’s presence or stand in the place of the great, for it is better to be told, “Come up here,” than to be put lower in the presence of a noble.
What your eyes have seen" — This isn't just about being humble; it’s about avoiding a painful fall. The original Hebrew suggests "glorifying yourself," warning that trying to elevate your own status before the king or great men…
Get the original Greek and Hebrew, verse-by-verse context, and related passages inside the app.
Last reviewed October 2026