Proverbs 6:16

There are six things that the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to Him:

Study Bible

There are six things
This phrase introduces a list that is both specific and significant. The number six in Hebrew culture often symbolizes imperfection or incompleteness, as it falls short of the number seven, which represents completeness or perfection. The use of "six" here sets the stage for a list of behaviors that are fundamentally flawed and contrary to God's nature.

that the LORD hates
The word "LORD" in this context is translated from the Hebrew "YHWH," the sacred and personal name of God, emphasizing His covenant relationship with His people. The term "hates" is strong, indicating not just a mild dislike but a profound moral repulsion. This reflects God's holy nature and His intolerance for sin, which disrupts the order and harmony He desires for His creation.

seven that are detestable to Him
The transition from six to seven is a literary device known as a numerical proverb, common in Hebrew poetry, which serves to emphasize the completeness of the list. The word "detestable" is translated from the Hebrew "toebah," which conveys a sense of abomination or something that is utterly loathsome. This highlights the severity of these sins in the eyes of God. The number seven, symbolizing completeness, suggests that these behaviors are a complete affront to God's holiness and righteousness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal and unchanging nature. In this context, it highlights God's moral standards and His aversion to sin.

2. Solomon
Traditionally considered the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. He compiled these sayings to impart wisdom and moral guidance.

3. Israel
The original audience of Proverbs, the nation chosen by God to be a light to the nations, called to live according to His statutes and commandments.

Teaching Points

Understanding God's Character
Recognize that God’s hatred of sin is rooted in His holy and righteous nature. Understanding what God detests helps us align our lives with His will.

Moral Inventory
Regularly examine your life for attitudes and actions that God finds detestable. Use this passage as a checklist for personal spiritual growth.

Pursuing Holiness
Strive to cultivate virtues that are the opposite of the detestable traits listed in Proverbs 6:17-19, such as humility, honesty, and love.

Community Accountability
Encourage one another in the faith community to uphold God’s standards, offering support and correction in love when necessary.

Reflecting Christ
As followers of Christ, aim to reflect His character by avoiding what God hates and embodying His love and righteousness in daily life.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are the six things that the LORD hates, and why do you think they are detestable to Him?

2. How can understanding what God hates help us in our personal spiritual growth and relationship with Him?

3. In what ways can we apply the principles from Proverbs 6:16-19 to our interactions within our community and church?

4. How does the New Testament teaching in James 4:6 about pride relate to the list of detestable things in Proverbs 6:17-19?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to confront one of these detestable traits in your own life. How did you address it, and what was the outcome?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 6:17-19
These verses list the specific things that are detestable to the LORD, providing a detailed understanding of what God finds abhorrent.

Proverbs 8:13
This verse connects by emphasizing the fear of the LORD as hating evil, pride, arrogance, and perverse speech, aligning with the themes of detestable actions.

Isaiah 1:13-17
This passage speaks to the rejection of empty religious rituals and the call to pursue justice and righteousness, echoing the need for genuine moral conduct.

James 4:6
This New Testament verse highlights God's opposition to the proud, which aligns with the detestable nature of pride mentioned in Proverbs 6:17.