Proverbs 18:12
“Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility.”
Proverbs 18:12 in 7 translations
- KJVKing James Version
- Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility.
- DRADouay–Rheims
- Before destruction, the heart of a man is exalted: and before he be glorified, it is humbled.
- ASVAmerican Standard Version
- Before destruction the heart of man is haughty; And before honor goeth humility.
- DARBYDarby
- Before destruction the heart of man is haughty; and before honour goeth humility.
- WEBThe World English Bible
- Before destruction the heart of man is proud, but before honor is humility.
- YLTYoung's Literal Translation
- Before destruction the heart of man is high, And before honour is humility.
- BPVBiblePics Version
- Before destruction, a person’s heart is proud, but humility comes before honor.
Context: Proverbs 18
10The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.
11The rich man's wealth is his strong city, and as an high wall in his own conceit.
12Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility.
13He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.
14The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; but a wounded spirit who can bear?
About Proverbs 18: Words Have Power

Proverbs 18 reveals that words have tremendous power to build up or tear down, to bring life or death. It encourages us to be careful with our words and to use them wisely, for our words have the potential to deeply impact ourselves and others.
Commentary
This chapter emphasizes the importance of self-control and discernment when it comes to speaking. It warns against hasty judgments, gossip, and flattery, which can lead to shame and destruction. Conversely, it highlights the value of wise counsel, humility, and listening to both accurate and opposing viewpoints. The chapter also reminds us that our words can be a source of healing, comfort, and wisdom. Ultimately, Proverbs 18 reinforces the idea that the power of our words lies not only in what we say but also in how we say it.