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class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/proverbs/3.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/proverbs/3.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/proverbs/3.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />Do not withhold good from those who deserve it when it’s in your power to help them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/proverbs/3.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/proverbs/3.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />Do not withhold good from the deserving when it is within your power to act.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/proverbs/3.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do <i>it</i>.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/proverbs/3.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, When it is in the power of your hand to do <i>so.</i><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/proverbs/3.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, When it is in your power to do <i>it.</i><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/proverbs/3.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, When it is in your power to do it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/proverbs/3.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, When it is in your power to do <i>it.</i><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/proverbs/3.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, When it is in your hand to do <i>it</i>.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/proverbs/3.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due [its rightful recipients], When it is in your power to do it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/proverbs/3.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />When it is in your power, don’t withhold good from the one to whom it belongs.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/proverbs/3.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />When it is in your power, don&#8217t withhold good from the one it belongs to. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/proverbs/3.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, When it is in the power of thy hand to do it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/proverbs/3.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />Do all you can for everyone who deserves your help. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/proverbs/3.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/proverbs/3.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />Do not hold back anything good from those who are entitled to it when you have the power to do so.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/proverbs/3.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />Whenever you possibly can, do good to those who need it. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/proverbs/3.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/proverbs/3.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />Do not withhold good from the deserving when it is within your power to act.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/proverbs/3.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />Do not withhold good from those who need it, when you have the ability to help. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/proverbs/3.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in the power of your hand to do it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/proverbs/3.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thy hand to do it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/proverbs/3.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />Don’t withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in the power of your hand to do it. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/proverbs/3.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />Do not withhold good from its owners, "" When your hand [is] toward God to do [it].<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/proverbs/3.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> Withhold not good from its owners, When thy hand is toward God to do it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/proverbs/3.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />Thou shalt not withhold good from those possessing it in its being to the power of thy hand to do.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/proverbs/3.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />Do not withhold him from doing good, who is able: if thou art able, do good thyself also. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/proverbs/3.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />Do not prevent him who is able from doing good. When you are able, do good yourself too.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/proverbs/3.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />Do not withhold any goods from the owner when it is in your power to act. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/proverbs/3.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/proverbs/3.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />Do not refuse to do that which is good, when it is in the power of your hand to do it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/proverbs/3.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />Do not refrain from doing what is beautiful as long as you are able.<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/proverbs/3.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />Withhold not good from him to whom it is due, When it is in the power of thy hand to do it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/proverbs/3.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />Forbear not to do good to the poor, whensoever thy hand may have <i>power</i> to help <i>him</i>.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/proverbs/3-27.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kpUA5ZltBeQ?start=520" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/proverbs/3.htm">The Blessings of Wisdom</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">26</span>for the LORD will be your confidence and will keep your foot from the snare. <span class="reftext">27</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/408.htm" title="408: ’al- (Adv) -- Not (a subjective neg.). A negative particle; not; once as a noun, nothing.">Do not</a> <a href="/hebrew/4513.htm" title="4513: tim·na‘- (V-Qal-Imperf-2ms) -- To withhold, hold back. A primitive root; to debar from benefit or injury.">withhold</a> <a href="/hebrew/2896.htm" title="2896: ṭō·wḇ (N-ms) -- Pleasant, agreeable, good.">good</a> <a href="/hebrew/1167.htm" title="1167: mib·bə·‘ā·lāw (Prep-l:: N-mpc:: 3ms) -- Owner, lord. From ba'al; a master; hence, a husband, or owner.">from the deserving</a> <a href="/hebrew/1961.htm" title="1961: bih·yō·wṯ (Prep:: V-Qal-Inf) -- To fall out, come to pass, become, be. A primitive root; to exist, i.e. Be or become, come to pass.">when it is</a> <a href="/hebrew/3027.htm" title="3027: yå̄·ḏɛ·ḵå̄ (N-fsc:: 2ms) -- Hand (indicating power, means, direction, etc.)">within your</a> <a href="/hebrew/410.htm" title="410: lə·’êl (N-fdc:: 2ms) -- God, in pl. gods. Shortened from 'ayil; strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the Almighty.">power</a> <a href="/hebrew/6213.htm" title="6213: la·‘ă·śō·wṯ (Prep-l:: V-Qal-Inf) -- To do, make. A primitive root; to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application.">to act.</a> </span><span class="reftext">28</span>Do not tell your neighbor, “Come back tomorrow and I will provide”—when you already have the means.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/4-17.htm">James 4:17</a></span><br />Anyone, then, who knows the right thing to do, yet fails to do it, is guilty of sin.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/galatians/6-10.htm">Galatians 6:10</a></span><br />Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to the family of faith.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/13-8.htm">Romans 13:8</a></span><br />Be indebted to no one, except to one another in love. For he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/5-42.htm">Matthew 5:42</a></span><br />Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/luke/6-30.htm">Luke 6:30-31</a></span><br />Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what is yours, do not demand it back. / Do to others as you would have them do to you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_john/3-17.htm">1 John 3:17-18</a></span><br />If anyone with earthly possessions sees his brother in need, but withholds his compassion from him, how can the love of God abide in him? / Little children, let us love not in word and speech, but in action and truth.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/hebrews/13-16.htm">Hebrews 13:16</a></span><br />And do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_corinthians/9-6.htm">2 Corinthians 9:6-7</a></span><br />Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. / Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/ephesians/4-28.htm">Ephesians 4:28</a></span><br />He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing good with his own hands, that he may have something to share with the one in need.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/7-12.htm">Matthew 7:12</a></span><br />In everything, then, do to others as you would have them do to you. For this is the essence of the Law and the Prophets.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/deuteronomy/15-7.htm">Deuteronomy 15:7-8</a></span><br />If there is a poor man among your brothers within any of the gates in the land that the LORD your God is giving you, then you are not to harden your heart or shut your hand from your poor brother. / Instead, you are to open your hand to him and freely loan him whatever he needs.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/leviticus/19-13.htm">Leviticus 19:13</a></span><br />You must not defraud your neighbor or rob him. You must not withhold until morning the wages due a hired hand.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/micah/6-8.htm">Micah 6:8</a></span><br />He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/58-6.htm">Isaiah 58:6-7</a></span><br />Isn’t this the fast that I have chosen: to break the chains of wickedness, to untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and tear off every yoke? / Isn’t it to share your bread with the hungry, to bring the poor and homeless into your home, to clothe the naked when you see him, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/37-21.htm">Psalm 37:21</a></span><br />The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous are gracious and giving.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of your hand to do it.</p><p class="hdg">withhold</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/romans/13-7.htm">Romans 13:7</a></b></br> Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute <i>is due</i>; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/galatians/6-10.htm">Galatians 6:10</a></b></br> As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all <i>men</i>, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/titus/2-14.htm">Titus 2:14</a></b></br> Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.</p><p class="hdg">them to whom it is due</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/genesis/31-29.htm">Genesis 31:29</a></b></br> It is in the power of my hand to do you hurt: but the God of your father spake unto me yesternight, saying, Take thou heed that thou speak not to Jacob either good or bad.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/micah/2-1.htm">Micah 2:1</a></b></br> Woe to them that devise iniquity, and work evil upon their beds! when the morning is light, they practise it, because it is in the power of their hand.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/psalms/119-126.htm">Act</a> <a href="/psalms/103-10.htm">Deserve</a> <a href="/psalms/145-15.htm">Due</a> <a href="/proverbs/3-21.htm">Good</a> <a href="/proverbs/3-16.htm">Hand</a> <a href="/proverbs/1-19.htm">Owners</a> <a href="/proverbs/2-16.htm">Power</a> <a href="/proverbs/3-16.htm">Right</a> <a href="/proverbs/1-15.htm">Withhold</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/proverbs/6-31.htm">Act</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-14.htm">Deserve</a> <a href="/proverbs/7-14.htm">Due</a> <a href="/proverbs/4-2.htm">Good</a> <a href="/proverbs/4-27.htm">Hand</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/5-11.htm">Owners</a> <a href="/proverbs/6-3.htm">Power</a> <a href="/proverbs/4-11.htm">Right</a> <a href="/proverbs/21-26.htm">Withhold</a><div class="vheading2">Proverbs 3</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/3-1.htm">various exhortations</a></span><br><span class="reftext">13. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/3-13.htm">The gain of wisdom</a></span><br><span class="reftext">27. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/3-27.htm">Exhortation to goodness</a></span><br><span class="reftext">33. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/3-33.htm">the different state of the wicked and upright</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/proverbs/3.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/proverbs/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/proverbs/3.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>Do not withhold good from the deserving</b><br>This phrase emphasizes the moral obligation to act benevolently towards those who are worthy or in need. In the biblical context, "good" can refer to acts of kindness, justice, or material assistance. The deserving are those who have a rightful claim to such goodness, whether through their need, their relationship, or their righteousness. This aligns with the broader biblical principle of justice and mercy, as seen in <a href="/micah/6-8.htm">Micah 6:8</a>, which calls believers to act justly and love mercy. The cultural context of ancient Israel placed a strong emphasis on community and mutual support, reflecting God's covenantal relationship with His people.<p><b>when it is within your power to act</b><br>This phrase highlights personal responsibility and the importance of using one's resources and abilities to benefit others. The biblical narrative often underscores the stewardship of resources, as seen in the Parable of the Talents (<a href="/matthew/25-14.htm">Matthew 25:14-30</a>), where individuals are accountable for how they use what they have been given. The historical context of this proverb suggests a society where social justice was a communal responsibility, and individuals were expected to contribute to the welfare of others. This principle is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are encouraged to do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers (<a href="/galatians/6-10.htm">Galatians 6:10</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/s/solomon.htm">Solomon</a></b><br>Traditionally regarded as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. His teachings in Proverbs are meant to guide the reader in living a life that is pleasing to God.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_wise_and_the_foolish.htm">The Wise and the Foolish</a></b><br>Throughout Proverbs, Solomon contrasts the wise, who follow God's commandments, with the foolish, who ignore them. This verse addresses the wise, encouraging them to act justly and generously.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_neighbor.htm">The Neighbor</a></b><br>While not explicitly mentioned in this verse, the context implies a relationship with others, particularly those in close proximity or community, who may be in need of good deeds.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_call_to_generosity.htm">The Call to Generosity</a></b><br>As Christians, we are called to be generous and not withhold good from others. This includes acts of kindness, charity, and support, especially when we have the means to help.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/r/responsibility_and_stewardship.htm">Responsibility and Stewardship</a></b><br>We are stewards of the resources and abilities God has given us. This verse reminds us of our responsibility to use them for the benefit of others.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/timeliness_in_action.htm">Timeliness in Action</a></b><br>The phrase "when it is within your power to act" highlights the importance of timely action. Delaying good deeds can result in missed opportunities to bless others.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/m/moral_obligation.htm">Moral Obligation</a></b><br>The verse implies a moral obligation to act when we have the capacity to do so. It challenges us to consider our actions and inactions in light of God's commands.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/r/reflecting_god's_character.htm">Reflecting God's Character</a></b><br>By doing good to others, we reflect God's character and love, serving as His representatives on earth.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_proverbs_3.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 3</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_can_i_assist_you_further.htm">How can I assist you further?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/bible's_view_on_breast_implants.htm">How should others be treated?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_does_the_bible_say_on_speech.htm">What does the Bible teach about controlling speech?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/does_james_3_9-10_oversimplify_emotions.htm">James 3:9-10 suggests it's inconsistent to praise God and curse others; does this contradict human nature or oversimplify complex emotions?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/proverbs/3.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(f) <span class= "ital">Sixth Discourse:</span>--<span class= "ital">Exhortation to Charity, Peace, Contentment </span>(<a href="/context/proverbs/3-27.htm" title="Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of your hand to do it.">Proverbs 3:27-35</a>).<p>(27) <span class= "bld">Them to whom it is due--</span><span class= "ital">i.e.</span>, the poor and needy. An exhortation to us to make to ourselves "friends of the mammon of unrighteousness" (uncertain riches, <a href="/luke/16-9.htm" title="And I say to you, Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness; that, when you fail, they may receive you into everlasting habitations.">Luke 16:9</a>), remembering that we are not absolute owners, but "stewards of the manifold grace of God" (<a href="/1_peter/4-10.htm" title="As every man has received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.">1Peter 4:10</a>), so that when we "fail," <span class= "ital">i.e., </span>die, "they," the friends we have made by our liberality, may welcome us to heaven.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/proverbs/3.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verses 27-35.</span> - 6. <span class="accented">Sixth admonitory discourse.</span> In this discourse the teacher still carries on his object, which is to demonstrate the conditions upon which true wisdom and happiness are to be attained. The discourse differs from the preceding in consisting of detached proverbs, and may be divided into two main sections - the first (vers. 27-30) enjoining benevolence, that love to one's neighbour which is the fulfilling of the Law; the second warning against emulating the oppressor and associating with him, because of the fate of the wicked (vers. 31-35). It is observable that all the maxims have a negative form, and thus present a striking contrast to the form adopted by our Lord in the Sermon on the Mount (<a href="/matthew/5.htm">Matthew 5</a>.), and to the admonitions at the close of St. Paul's Epistles. In one instance in particular (ver. 30), the teaching does not reach the high moral standard of the gospel (see Delitzsch and Lange). <span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 27.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">Withhold not good from them to whom it is due.</span> This precept indicates the general principle of beneficence, and not merely, as the words at first sight seem to imply, restitution (as Cajet.). We are to do good to those who are in need or deserving of it, whenever we have the means and opportunity. <span class="accented">From them to whom it is due</span> (<span class="accented">nib'alayv</span>); literally, <span class="accented">from its owner</span>, from <span class="accented">baal, dominus</span>, "lord" or owner of a thing. Cf. <a href="/proverbs/16-22.htm">Proverbs 16:22</a>, "Prudence is a fountain of life to its owner (<span class="accented">b'alayv</span>);" 1:19; 17:8; and also <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-8.htm">Ecclesiastes 8:8</a>; <a href="/ecclesiastes/7-12.htm">Ecclesiastes 7:12</a>; - in all of which passages proprietorship in the thing or quality mentioned is expressed. The owners of good are those to whom good is due or belongs either by law or by morality, whether by desert or need. The latter qualification is the one emphasized in the LXX, <span class="greek">Μὴ ἀπόσχῃ ε΅ν ποιεῖν ἐνδεῆ</span>, "Abstain not from doing good to the needy." So the Arabic <span class="accented">pauperi.</span> The Targum and Syriac put the precept in more general terms, "Cease not to do good," without indicating in particular anyone who is to be the recipient of the good. But the Jewish interpreters generally (<span class="accented">e.g.</span> Ben Ezra) understand it of the poor, <span class="accented">egentibus.</span> The Vulgate puts an entirely different interpretation on the passage: <span class="accented">Noli prohibere benefacere eum qui potest</span>; <span class="accented">si vales, et ipse benefac</span>, "Do not prohibit him who can from doing good; if you are able, do good also yourself." It thus implies that we are to put no impediment in the way of any one who is willing to do good to others, and enjoins the duty on ourselves also. <span class="accented">Good</span> (<span class="accented">tov</span>); <span class="accented">i.e.</span> "<span class="accented">good"</span> under any form, any good deed or act of beneficence. The principle brought forward in this passage is that what we possess and is seemingly our own is in reality to be regarded as belonging to others. We are only stewards of our wealth. <span class="cmt_word">In the power of thine hand</span> (<span class="accented">lel yad'yka</span>); literally, <span class="accented">in the power of thine hands.</span> For the dual, <span class="accented">yad'yka</span>, the Keri substitutes the singular, <span class="accented">yad'ka</span>, to harmonize it with the similar expression, <span class="accented">lel yadi</span>, "in the power of thy hand," which occurs in <a href="/genesis/31-27.htm">Genesis 31:27</a>; <a href="/deuteronomy/28-32.htm">Deuteronomy 28:32</a>; <a href="/nehemiah/5-5.htm">Nehemiah 5:5</a>; <a href="/micah/2-1.htm">Micah 2:1</a>. But there is no grammatical need for the emendation. Both the LXX. and Targum employ the singular, "thy hand." <span class="accented">Power</span> (<span class="accented">el</span>); here "strength" in the abstract. Usually it means "the strong," and is so used as an appellation of Jehovah. though, as Gesenius says, those little understand the phrase who would render <span class="accented">el</span> here "by God." The <span class="hebrew">לְ</span> prefixed to <span class="accented">el</span> indicates the condition. The meaning of the phrase is, "While it is practicable, and you have the opportunity and means of doing good, do it." Do not defer, but do good promptly. The passage receives a remarkable illustration in the language of St. Paul, "While we have opportunity, let us do good unto all men" (<a href="/galatians/6-10.htm">Galatians 6:10</a>). <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/proverbs/3-27.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">Do not</span><br /><span class="heb">אַל־</span> <span class="translit">(’al-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_408.htm">Strong's 408: </a> </span><span class="str2">Not</span><br /><br /><span class="word">withhold</span><br /><span class="heb">תִּמְנַע־</span> <span class="translit">(tim·na‘-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Imperfect - second person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_4513.htm">Strong's 4513: </a> </span><span class="str2">To debar, from benefit, injury</span><br /><br /><span class="word">good</span><br /><span class="heb">ט֥וֹב</span> <span class="translit">(ṭō·wḇ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2896.htm">Strong's 2896: </a> </span><span class="str2">Pleasant, agreeable, good</span><br /><br /><span class="word">from those who deserve it,</span><br /><span class="heb">מִבְּעָלָ֑יו</span> <span class="translit">(mib·bə·‘ā·lāw)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-l | Noun - masculine plural construct | third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1167.htm">Strong's 1167: </a> </span><span class="str2">A master, a husband, owner</span><br /><br /><span class="word">when it is</span><br /><span class="heb">בִּהְי֨וֹת</span> <span class="translit">(bih·yō·wṯ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1961.htm">Strong's 1961: </a> </span><span class="str2">To fall out, come to pass, become, be</span><br /><br /><span class="word">within your</span><br /><span class="heb">יָדְךָ֣</span> <span class="translit">(yā·ḏə·ḵā)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - feminine singular construct | second person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3027.htm">Strong's 3027: </a> </span><span class="str2">A hand</span><br /><br /><span class="word">power</span><br /><span class="heb">לְאֵ֖ל</span> <span class="translit">(lə·’êl)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - fdc | second person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_410.htm">Strong's 410: </a> </span><span class="str2">Strength -- as adjective, mighty, the Almighty</span><br /><br /><span class="word">to act.</span><br /><span class="heb">לַעֲשֽׂוֹת׃</span> <span class="translit">(la·‘ă·śō·wṯ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-l | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6213.htm">Strong's 6213: </a> </span><span class="str2">To do, make</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/proverbs/3-27.htm">Proverbs 3:27 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/proverbs/3-27.htm">Proverbs 3:27 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/proverbs/3-27.htm">Proverbs 3:27 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/proverbs/3-27.htm">Proverbs 3:27 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/proverbs/3-27.htm">Proverbs 3:27 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/proverbs/3-27.htm">Proverbs 3:27 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/proverbs/3-27.htm">Proverbs 3:27 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/proverbs/3-27.htm">Proverbs 3:27 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/proverbs/3-27.htm">Proverbs 3:27 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/proverbs/3-27.htm">Proverbs 3:27 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/proverbs/3-27.htm">OT Poetry: Proverbs 3:27 Don't withhold good from those to whom (Prov. Pro Pr) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/proverbs/3-26.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Proverbs 3:26"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Proverbs 3:26" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/proverbs/3-28.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Proverbs 3:28"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Proverbs 3:28" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>