Proverbs 12:20 nasb — Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil, But counselors of peace have joy.

NASB

"Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil, But counselors of peace have joy."

— Proverbs 12:20, NASB

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Proverbs 12:20 in Other Translations

4 versions All translations

KJV
“Deceit is in the heart of them that imagine evil: but to the counsellors of peace is joy.”
King James Version · Read this chapter in KJV
ASV
“Deceit is in the heart of them that devise evil; But to the counsellors of peace is joy. ”
American Standard Version · Read this chapter in ASV
WEB
“Deceit is in the heart of those who plot evil, but joy comes to the promoters of peace.”
World English Bible · Read this chapter in WEB
NET
“Deceit is in the heart of those who plot evil, but those who promote peace have joy.”
NET Bible · Read this chapter in NET

Proverbs 12 — Context

He who speaks truth tells what is right, But a false witness, deceit.

There is one who speaks rashly like the thrusts of a sword, But the tongue of the wise brings healing.

Truthful lips will be established forever, But a lying tongue is only for a moment.

Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil, But counselors of peace have joy.

No harm befalls the righteous, But the wicked are filled with trouble.

Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD, But those who deal faithfully are His delight.

A prudent man conceals knowledge, But the heart of fools proclaims folly.

Proverbs 12:20 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions

What does Proverbs 12:20 say?

Proverbs 12:20 in the NASB reads: “Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil, But counselors of peace have joy.”

Where is Proverbs 12:20 in the Bible?

Proverbs 12:20 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Proverbs, chapter 12, verse 20.

Who wrote Proverbs?

Proverbs is traditionally attributed to Solomon (primarily), with sections by Agur and Lemuel. It was written c. 970–700 BC.

What is the book of Proverbs about?

Proverbs is practical wisdom for everyday life — short, vivid sayings on speech, work, money, friendship, sex, parenting, and the fear of the LORD. It teaches that wisdom is not mere cleverness but a way of walking with God in a complicated world.

What are the major themes of Proverbs?

Proverbs explores themes including Wisdom, Folly, Fear of the LORD, Discipline, Speech, Diligence. These themes shape the meaning and context of Proverbs 12:20.

What translation should I read Proverbs 12:20 in?

Proverbs 12:20 is available on GodsGoodBook in the King James Version (KJV), American Standard Version (ASV), World English Bible (WEB), NET Bible, Young's Literal Translation, Darby Bible, Douay-Rheims Bible, and the Bible in Basic English. Each translation reflects different translation philosophies — use the translation picker on this page to compare them, or browse our full translations directory.

How can I memorize Proverbs 12:20?

Proverbs 12:20 reads (NASB): “Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil, But counselors of peace have joy.” Read it aloud, break it into short phrases, repeat each phrase three times before adding the next, then put the phrases together. Reading it in multiple translations (above) often helps the meaning settle.

Proverbs 12:20 nasb — Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil, But counselors of peace have joy.

Read in Another Translation

Proverbs 12:20 in Other Translations

Proverbs 12 — Context

Proverbs 12:20 — Frequently Asked Questions

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