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Every word of God is purified;[a]
he is like[b] a shield for those who take refuge in him.[c]
Do not add to his words,
lest he reprove you, and prove you to be a liar.[d]

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Footnotes

  1. Proverbs 30:5 sn The text here uses an implied comparison (a figure of speech known as hypocatastasis): It compares the perfection of every word from God with some precious metal that has been refined and purified (e.g., Ps 12:6). The point is that God’s word is trustworthy; it has no defects and flaws, nothing false or misleading. The second half of the verse explains the significance of this point—it is safe to trust the Lord.
  2. Proverbs 30:5 tn The comparative “like” does not appear in the Hebrew text, but is implied by the metaphor; it is supplied in the translation for the sake of clarity.
  3. Proverbs 30:5 sn The line uses two more figures of speech to declare that God can be trusted for security and salvation. “Shield” is a simple metaphor—God protects. “Take refuge” is another implied comparison (hypocatastasis)—God provides spiritual rest and security for those who put their trust in him.
  4. Proverbs 30:6 tn The form of the verb is a Niphal perfect tense with a vav consecutive from the root כָּזַב (kazav, “to lie”). In this stem it has the ideas of “been made deceptive,” or “shown to be false” or “proved to be a liar.” One who adds to or changes the word of the Lord will be seen as a liar.


Every word of God is tested and refined [like silver];
He is a shield to those who trust and take refuge in Him.(A)

Do not add to His words,
Or He will reprove you, and you will be found a liar.

Read full chapter