Proverbs 25:6-7
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)
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This isn't just about not being boastful; the original Hebrew suggests you shouldn't magnify or glorify yourself by acting too grand or familiar with superiors. It’s about recognizing proper boundaries and not seeking honor or a place that isn't rightfully yours, especially in the presence of authority.
This proverb is part of a collection attributed to Solomon, specifically focusing on wisdom for rulers and those interacting with them. It immediately follows instructions on how to behave when invited to a royal banquet and precedes advice on resolving disputes to avoid public shame. The verses emphasize humility and proper positioning, particularly in the presence of authority figures like kings and nobles.
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 when advising guests not to take the place of honor at a wedding feast, illustrating the same principle of humility and avoiding presumption.
Matthew 23:12This teaching from Jesus expands on the theme, stating that whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted, directly mirroring the wisdom found in Proverbs.
1 Samuel 15:17When Samuel anoints David as king, he points out that while Saul may seem small in his own eyes, he was actually raised up to be leader of Israel, contrasting the outward appearance of humility with true God-ordained status.
Philippians 2:3The Apostle Paul calls believers to do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than themselves, applying this ancient wisdom to the Christian community.
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 not being boastful; the original Hebrew suggests you shouldn't magnify or glorify yourself by acting too grand or familiar with superiors. It’s about recognizing proper boundaries and not seeking honor or a place that isn't rightfully yours, especially in the presence of authority.
This proverb is part of a collection attributed to Solomon, specifically focusing on wisdom for rulers and those interacting with them. It immediately follows instructions on how to behave when invited to a royal banquet and precedes advice on resolving disputes to avoid public shame. The verses emphasize humility and proper positioning, particularly in the presence of authority figures like kings and nobles.
This proverb is part of a collection attributed to Solomon, specifically focusing on wisdom for rulers and those interacting with them. It immediately follows instructions on how to behave when invited to a royal banquet and precedes advice on resolving disputes to avoid public shame. The verses emphasize humility and proper positioning, particularly in the presence of authority figures like kings and nobles.
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"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 not being boastful; the original Hebrew suggests you shouldn't *magnify* or *glorify* yourself by acting too grand or familiar with superiors. It’s about recognizing proper boun…