Proverbs 20:22 web — Don't say, "I will pay back evil." Wait for Yahweh, and he will save you.

World English Bible

"Don't say, "I will pay back evil." Wait for Yahweh, and he will save you."

— Proverbs 20:22, World English Bible

Read in Another Translation

5 of 21 translations

Proverbs 20:22 in Other Translations

6 versions All translations

Proverbs 20 — Context

19

He who goes about as a tale-bearer reveals secrets; therefore don't keep company with him who opens wide his lips.

20

Whoever curses his father or his mother, his lamp shall be put out in blackness of darkness.

21

An inheritance quickly gained at the beginning, won't be blessed in the end.

22

Don't say, "I will pay back evil." Wait for Yahweh, and he will save you.

23

Yahweh detests differing weights, and dishonest scales are not pleasing.

24

A man's steps are from Yahweh; how then can man understand his way?

25

It is a snare to a man to make a rash dedication, then later to consider his vows.

Proverbs 20:22 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Proverbs 20:22 say?
Proverbs 20:22 in the World English Bible reads: “Don't say, "I will pay back evil." Wait for Yahweh, and he will save you.”
Where is Proverbs 20:22 in the Bible?
Proverbs 20:22 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Proverbs, chapter 20, verse 22.
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 20:22.
What translation should I read Proverbs 20:22 in?
Proverbs 20:22 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 20:22?
Proverbs 20:22 reads (WEB): “Don't say, "I will pay back evil." Wait for Yahweh, and he will save you.” 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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