Old Testament
Proverbs 20:30
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse suggests that physical pain or suffering can lead to moral and spiritual cleansing.
- Author
- Primarily Solomon, with other contributors
- Written
- Around 950-700 BC
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- Young people and all seeking wisdom
Bruises from a wound cleanse away evil, and so do blows to the inner parts of the belly.
The blueness of a wound cleanseth away evil: so do stripes the inward parts of the belly.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse suggests that physical pain or suffering can lead to moral and spiritual cleansing. Just as bruises and wounds can heal the body, they can also serve a purpose in correcting one's character and behavior. The imagery of blows to the belly indicates that deep, internal struggles can lead to personal growth and the removal of evil tendencies. The idea is that sometimes, enduring hardship or facing consequences can lead to a better understanding of oneself and a path toward righteousness. It emphasizes the value of discipline and the lessons learned through pain, suggesting that these experiences can refine a person's character and lead them away from wrongdoing.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Proverbs 20:30 to your life
When facing difficulties or consequences for our actions, we should reflect on what we can learn from these experiences. Instead of avoiding pain, we can embrace it as a chance for growth and improvement in our character and moral choices.
Curated for this public verse page. Proverbs Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Proverbs 20:30 mean?
Proverbs 20:30 suggests that physical pain, like bruises and wounds, can lead to moral and spiritual cleansing. It implies that enduring hardship can help correct one's character and lead to personal growth.
What is the meaning of 'blueness of a wound' in Proverbs 20:30?
The phrase 'blueness of a wound' refers to the visible signs of injury that can serve as a reminder of the consequences of one's actions, indicating that pain can lead to reflection and improvement in behavior.
How does Proverbs 20:30 relate to discipline?
Proverbs 20:30 relates to discipline by showing that experiencing pain or consequences can be a form of correction that helps refine character and encourages moral behavior.
What lessons can we learn from Proverbs 20:30?
From Proverbs 20:30, we can learn that facing difficulties can provide valuable lessons. Instead of shying away from pain, we should view it as an opportunity for growth and improvement in our moral choices.
The Book of Proverbs
Proverbs 1: The Beginning of Knowledge
These are the proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel. They are given to know wisdom and instruction, to understand words of insight, and to receive instruction in wise behavior, justice, judgment, and fairness. They are written to give prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young. A wise person hears and increases learning, and a person of understanding gains wise counsel. The fear of the LORD is stated as the beginning of knowledge, while fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Unlock the full Proverbs summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Proverbs — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 31 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Proverbs summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.