Topical Encyclopedia
The "Seven Things the Lord Hates" is a list found in the Book of Proverbs, specifically
Proverbs 6:16-19, which outlines behaviors and attitudes that are detestable to God. This passage serves as a moral and ethical guide, emphasizing the importance of righteous living and the avoidance of sin. The Berean Standard Bible translates this passage as follows:
"There are six things that the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to Him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that run swiftly to evil, a false witness who gives false testimony, and one who stirs up discord among brothers."
1.
Haughty Eyes: This phrase refers to pride and arrogance. In biblical terms, pride is often seen as the root of many sins, as it elevates the self above others and even above God. The Bible consistently warns against pride, as seen in
Proverbs 16:18, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall."
2.
A Lying Tongue: Truthfulness is a fundamental value in Scripture, and lying is condemned as it undermines trust and justice. The ninth commandment, "You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor" (
Exodus 20:16), underscores the importance of honesty.
3.
Hands That Shed Innocent Blood: This phrase condemns murder and violence against the innocent. The sanctity of life is a core biblical principle, and the shedding of innocent blood is seen as a grave sin.
Genesis 9:6 states, "Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed; for in the image of God has God made mankind."
4.
A Heart That Devises Wicked Schemes: This refers to the intentional planning of evil acts. The heart, in biblical terms, is the center of thought and intention.
Jeremiah 17:9 warns, "The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?"
5.
Feet That Run Swiftly to Evil: This describes a readiness and eagerness to engage in wrongdoing. It highlights the importance of resisting temptation and avoiding the path of sin.
Isaiah 59:7 echoes this sentiment: "Their feet rush into sin; they are swift to shed innocent blood."
6.
A False Witness Who Gives False Testimony: This is a specific form of lying that involves perjury or slander, which can lead to injustice and harm to others.
Proverbs 19:5 warns, "A false witness will not go unpunished, and one who utters lies will not escape."
7.
One Who Stirs Up Discord Among Brothers: This refers to sowing division and conflict within a community or family. Unity and peace are highly valued in Scripture, and those who cause strife are acting contrary to God's desire for harmony.
Psalm 133:1 states, "How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!"
These seven things are not merely individual sins but represent broader categories of behavior that disrupt the moral and social order God desires. They serve as a warning to believers to cultivate virtues that align with God's will, such as humility, truthfulness, justice, purity of heart, peace, and unity.