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Proverbs 20:11

Proverbs 20:11
Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.

My Notes

Commentary

Trusted original commentary from respected historical Bible scholars and theologians.

Baptist theologian, 1697–1771

Gill's Exposition

Even a child is known by his doings,.... As well as a man; "ye shall know them by their fruits", Mat 7:16; professors and profane. So a child soon discovers its genius by its actions; it soon shows…

Presbyterian pastor, 1798–1870

Barnes' Notes

The graces or the faults of children are not trifles. “The child is father of the man;” and the earliest actions are prophecies of the future, whether it will be pure and right, or unclean and evil.

Nonconformist minister, 1662–1714

Matthew Henry

The tree is known by its fruits, a man by his doings, even a young tree by its first fruits, a child by his childish things, whether his work be clean only, appearing good (the word is used Pro 16:2),…

Academic commentary, 1882–1921

Cambridge Bible

is known or, maketh himself known; betrays his true character, and gives presage of "his (life's) work." Comp. the familiar German proverb, "Was ein Dörnchen werden will spitzt sich bei Zeiten,"…