Commentary

What does Proverbs 13:20 mean?

“He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.” — Proverbs 13:20

Proverbs 13:20 (KJV) states, "He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed." This verse from the Book of Proverbs contains timeless wisdom about the value of choosing our companions and the impact they have on our lives. It, therefore, provides insight into the themes of wisdom, influence, and the consequences of our choices.

The context of this verse is within the larger Book of Proverbs, which is known for its practical advice and teachings on living a wise and righteous life. Proverbs is attributed to King Solomon, who is renowned for his wisdom and understanding. Within this specific verse, Solomon is highlighting the importance of the company we keep and its direct correlation to the course of our lives.

The first part of the verse, "He that walketh with wise men shall be wise," emphasizes the positive influence that wise companions can have on an individual. It suggests that when we surround ourselves with people who possess wisdom, intelligence, and good judgment, we are likely to absorb and benefit from their wisdom. This aligns with the common saying that we are the average of the five people we spend the most time with. In essence, our companions can shape our thoughts, beliefs, and actions, ultimately leading us to become wiser individuals.

Contrastingly, the second part of the verse, "but a companion of fools shall be destroyed," highlights the negative impact of associating with foolish or reckless individuals. The term "destroyed" here does not necessarily refer to physical destruction, but rather to the ruin and downfall that can result from aligning oneself with people who lack wisdom and discernment. This could manifest in various ways, such as making poor decisions, engaging in harmful behaviors, or experiencing emotional and spiritual detriment.

The dichotomy presented in this verse serves as a cautionary tale, urging individuals to be intentional and discerning in their choice of companions. It emphasizes the significance of surrounding oneself with people who embody qualities that align with wisdom, virtue, and integrity, rather than those who embody foolishness, recklessness, or immorality.

Moreover, this verse can also be interpreted symbolically, representing not only the literal people we choose to associate with but also the broader influences and sources of guidance in our lives. It underscores the idea that the ideologies, values, and beliefs of those around us can greatly impact our own perspectives and choices.

In a broader religious context, this verse can be seen as a reflection of the biblical principle of being mindful of the company we keep, as it is highlighted in multiple passages throughout the Bible. For instance, 1 Corinthians 15:33 (KJV) advises, "Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners," reinforcing the idea that our associations can either nurture or corrupt our character.

In summary, Proverbs 13:20 presents a profound truth about the power of influence and the significance of our relationships. It serves as a reminder to seek wisdom and discernment in both our personal connections and the influences we allow into our lives. By doing so, we can cultivate wisdom, make sound choices, and ultimately lead fulfilling and righteous lives.