Old Testament
Proverbs 28:12
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When the righteous rejoice, there is great glory, but when the wicked rise, a man is hidden.
Compare translations
When righteous men do rejoice, there is great glory: but when the wicked rise, a man is hidden.
What Proverbs 28:12 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights the contrast between the righteous and the wicked. When righteous people celebrate or find joy, it brings about a sense of glory and honor, not just for themselves but for their community. Their joy is a reflection of their good deeds and moral standing. In contrast, when wicked individuals gain power or prominence, it often leads to negative consequences, causing good people to feel hidden or marginalized. This suggests that the rise of evil can overshadow the good, making it harder for the righteous to be recognized or to thrive. The verse serves as a reminder of the importance of righteousness and the impact it has on society, emphasizing that the moral state of individuals can influence the overall atmosphere of a community.
How to apply Proverbs 28:12 to your life
This verse encourages us to celebrate and support righteousness in our lives and communities. By promoting good deeds and uplifting those who act justly, we contribute to a positive environment. Conversely, we should be aware of the influence of wickedness and strive to stand against it, ensuring that goodness prevails.
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 Moses's story: Israel Enslaved in Egypt (Exodus 1:8–22)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Moses
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. 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.
Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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 28:12
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 28:12
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 28:12 mean by 'great glory'?
In Proverbs 28:12, 'great glory' refers to the honor and positive recognition that comes when righteous individuals celebrate their achievements or moral standing. Their joy not only uplifts themselves but also inspires the community, creating an atmosphere of positivity and virtue. This glory reflects the collective well-being that arises from living righteously.
How does the rise of the wicked affect the righteous?
The verse indicates that when wicked individuals gain power or prominence, it can overshadow the righteous, causing them to feel hidden or marginalized. This suggests that the actions and influence of the wicked can create an environment where good deeds and moral integrity are less recognized or valued, making it challenging for the righteous to thrive.
What practical steps can I take to promote righteousness in my community?
To promote righteousness, you can engage in community service, support local charities, and encourage others to act justly. Celebrating the achievements of those who do good, advocating for ethical practices, and standing against injustice are also vital. By fostering a culture of positivity and support for moral actions, you help create an environment where righteousness flourishes.
Why is it important to recognize the joy of the righteous?
Recognizing the joy of the righteous is important because it reinforces the value of good deeds and moral integrity in society. Celebrating their achievements can inspire others to pursue righteousness, creating a ripple effect that enhances community well-being. It also serves as a reminder that joy and positivity can counteract the negativity brought by wickedness.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.