Proverbs 16:2 web — All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but Yahweh weighs the motives.

World English Bible

"All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but Yahweh weighs the motives."

— Proverbs 16:2, World English Bible

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Proverbs 16:2 in Other Translations

6 versions All translations

Proverbs 16 — Context

1

The plans of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from Yahweh.

2

All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but Yahweh weighs the motives.

3

Commit your deeds to Yahweh, and your plans shall succeed.

4

Yahweh has made everything for its own end-- yes, even the wicked for the day of evil.

5

Everyone who is proud in heart is an abomination to Yahweh: they shall certainly not be unpunished.

Proverbs 16:2 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Proverbs 16:2 say?
Proverbs 16:2 in the World English Bible reads: “All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but Yahweh weighs the motives.”
Where is Proverbs 16:2 in the Bible?
Proverbs 16:2 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Proverbs, chapter 16, verse 2.
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 16:2.
What translation should I read Proverbs 16:2 in?
Proverbs 16:2 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 16:2?
Proverbs 16:2 reads (WEB): “All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but Yahweh weighs the motives.” 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.
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