Old Testament
Proverbs 27:19
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
As in water face answers to face, so the heart of a person to a person.
Compare translations
As in water face answereth to face, so the heart of man to man.
What Proverbs 27:19 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse uses the imagery of water reflecting a face to illustrate how people reveal their true selves to one another. Just as a reflection in water shows exactly what is in front of it, a person's heart reveals their true feelings and intentions when they interact with others. The heart, representing our innermost thoughts and emotions, responds to others in a way that is genuine and authentic. This suggests that our interactions are often a reflection of our inner state, and we can understand others better by looking beyond their words to their true feelings. The verse emphasizes the importance of sincerity in relationships, as our hearts communicate more than our words can express. It encourages us to be aware of our own hearts and to seek authenticity in our connections with others, fostering deeper understanding and empathy.
How to apply Proverbs 27:19 to your life
To apply this verse, take time to reflect on your own feelings and how they influence your interactions with others. Strive for honesty in your relationships, allowing your true self to be seen. This will help build trust and understanding with those around you.
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 Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Noah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. 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.
Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
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 27:19
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 27:19
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 27:19 mean?
Proverbs 27:19 means that just as a face is reflected in water, a person's heart reveals their true feelings and intentions in interactions with others. It highlights the idea that our inner thoughts and emotions are often visible in how we relate to one another.
What is the meaning of 'heart of a person' in Proverbs 27:19?
In Proverbs 27:19, 'heart of a person' refers to a person's innermost thoughts, emotions, and intentions. It suggests that our true selves are revealed through our interactions, much like a reflection in water.
How can I apply Proverbs 27:19 in my life?
You can apply Proverbs 27:19 by being honest about your feelings and allowing your true self to show in your relationships. This approach fosters trust and deeper connections with others.
What themes are present in Proverbs 27:19?
The themes present in Proverbs 27:19 include reflection, authenticity, relationships, inner self, and communication. These themes highlight the significance of understanding and sincerity in our interactions.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.