Old Testament
Proverbs 24:29
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Don't say, 'I will do to him what he did to me; I will repay the man according to his actions.'
Compare translations
Say not, I will do so to him as he hath done to me: I will render to the man according to his work.
What Proverbs 24:29 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse advises against seeking revenge or retaliating against someone who has wronged you. Instead of responding in kind, it encourages a more thoughtful approach to conflict. The idea is that responding to harm with harm only perpetuates a cycle of negativity and can lead to further conflict. The wisdom here suggests that one should refrain from making hasty decisions based on emotions and instead consider the consequences of their actions. By choosing not to repay evil for evil, individuals can break the cycle of vengeance and promote peace. This principle aligns with broader biblical teachings about forgiveness and mercy, emphasizing the importance of rising above personal grievances and acting with integrity. Ultimately, the verse calls for self-control and a commitment to justice that does not involve personal revenge, encouraging individuals to trust that justice will be served in a higher sense, rather than taking matters into their own hands.
How to apply Proverbs 24:29 to your life
In daily life, when faced with conflict or wrongdoing, choose to respond with kindness rather than retaliation. Practice forgiveness and seek peaceful resolutions instead of seeking revenge. This approach not only fosters healthier relationships but also promotes personal peace and growth.
Curated for this public verse page. Proverbs Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Ruth
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Proverbs 24:29
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Proverbs 24:29
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Proverbs
- Author
- Primarily Solomon, with other contributors
- Written
- Around 950-700 BC
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- Young people and all seeking wisdom
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Proverbs 24:29 mean?
Proverbs 24:29 advises against seeking revenge by saying you will repay someone for their wrong actions. It encourages a thoughtful response to conflict rather than retaliating, promoting peace and self-control.
What is the meaning of revenge in Proverbs 24:29?
In Proverbs 24:29, revenge refers to the desire to retaliate against someone who has harmed you. The verse warns against this impulse, suggesting that responding with harm only continues a cycle of negativity.
How can I apply Proverbs 24:29 in my life?
You can apply Proverbs 24:29 by choosing to respond to conflicts with kindness and understanding instead of seeking revenge. Practicing forgiveness and focusing on peaceful resolutions can help improve your relationships and personal well-being.
What themes are present in Proverbs 24:29?
Proverbs 24:29 includes themes of revenge, forgiveness, self-control, justice, conflict resolution, and integrity. These themes highlight the importance of responding to wrongdoing in a way that promotes peace rather than perpetuating harm.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.