Proverbs 18:10 - Printer Friendly

ESV: The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe.

NIV: The name of the LORD is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.

NASB: The name of the Lord is a strong tower; The righteous runs into it and is safe.

CSB: The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are protected.

NLT: The name of the Lord is a strong fortress; the godly run to him and are safe.

KJV: The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.

NKJV: The name of the Lord is a strong tower; The righteous run to it and are safe.

"The name" of God represents His character. The righteous person finds security in all that the Lord is. Much of the book of Proverbs is encouragement to rely on godly wisdom (Proverbs 1:7) instead of worldly foolishness (Proverbs 3:35). Exodus 34:5 tells us the Lord descended in the cloud and stood with Moses at Mount Sinai, and there He proclaimed His name. He said, "The LORD, the LORD, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and bounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, keeping steadfast love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin" (Exodus 34:6–7).

When hard times come on believers in Christ, they can take refuge in the Lord's mercy, grace, love, faithfulness, and forgiveness. Physical safety is not always part of God's plan (Job 13:15; John 16:33), but Christians know their ultimate hope is not in this world (1 John 2:17). He will always work everything for their good and His glory (Romans 8:28–30). Proverbs 29:25 affirms, "The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is safe." Believers have no reason to fear, knowing how good the Lord is.

Proverbs 18:10–15 contrasts true security found in God with the illusion of wealth. As in the prior verses, Solomon explains the value of seeking out deeper understanding. This passage contains two famous biblical statements. One refers to God as a "strong tower," while the other notes that physical struggles are easier to endure than spiritual and emotional trials.

This segment of Solomon's wise sayings includes several well-known and often-repeated remarks. Among these are references to God's "name" as a place of safety, the connection between pride and catastrophe, the value of a godly spouse, and the intimate loyalty of a good friend. As in other parts of the book of Proverbs, these teachings are tied to warnings about the consequences of poor decisions.

Chapter 18 continues a long string of wise sayings attributed to Solomon. These began in chapter 10 and will continue through chapter 22. This section contains numerous references to fair-mindedness and seeking out truth from multiple sources. Diligent responsibility—in words, actions, and beliefs—is a notable emphasis in this segment.

Proverbs is best understood in context with the books of Ecclesiastes and Job. In Proverbs, “wisdom” is given in short, simple, general terms. Ecclesiastes represents wisdom based on observation and experience. This often shows how the general principles of the book of Proverbs don’t apply in absolutely every circumstance. Job represents wisdom based on the experience of suffering and injustice. All three come to the conclusion that God does indeed know best, and the most sensible course of action is to follow His will.