New International VersionFor lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.
New Living TranslationWithout wise leadership, a nation falls; there is safety in having many advisers.
English Standard VersionWhere there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.
Berean Standard BibleFor lack of guidance, a nation falls, but with many counselors comes deliverance.
King James BibleWhere no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellers there is safety.
New King James VersionWhere there is no counsel, the people fall; But in the multitude of counselors there is safety.
New American Standard BibleWhere there is no guidance the people fall, But in an abundance of counselors there is victory.
NASB 1995Where there is no guidance the people fall, But in abundance of counselors there is victory.
NASB 1977Where there is no guidance, the people fall, But in abundance of counselors there is victory.
Legacy Standard BibleWhere there is no guidance the people fall, But in abundance of counselors there is salvation.
Amplified BibleWhere there is no [wise, intelligent] guidance, the people fall [and go off course like a ship without a helm], But in the abundance of [wise and godly] counselors there is victory.
Christian Standard BibleWithout guidance, a people will fall, but with many counselors there is deliverance.
Holman Christian Standard BibleWithout guidance, people fall, but with many counselors there is deliverance.
American Standard VersionWhere no wise guidance is, the people falleth; But in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.
Contemporary English VersionA city without wise leaders will end up in ruin; a city with many wise leaders will be kept safe.
English Revised VersionWhere no wise guidance is, the people falleth: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.
GOD'S WORD® TranslationA nation will fall when there is no direction, but with many advisers there is victory.
Good News TranslationA nation will fall if it has no guidance. Many advisers mean security.
International Standard VersionA nation falls through a lack of guidance, but victory comes through the counsel of many.
NET BibleWhen there is no guidance a nation falls, but there is success in the abundance of counselors.
New Heart English BibleWhere there is no wise guidance, the nation falls, but in the multitude of counselors there is victory.
Webster's Bible TranslationWhere no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors there is safety. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleFor lack of guidance, a nation falls, but with many counselors comes deliverance.
World English BibleWhere there is no wise guidance, the nation falls, but in the multitude of counselors there is victory. Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionWithout counsels a people falls, "" And deliverance [is] in a multitude of counselors.
Young's Literal Translation Without counsels do a people fall, And deliverance is in a multitude of counsellors.
Smith's Literal TranslationIn no guidance the people will fall: and salvation in a multitude of counseling. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleWhere there is no governor, the people shall fall: but there is safety where there is much counsel.
Catholic Public Domain VersionWhere there is no governor, the people shall fall. But where there is much counsel, well-being shall be.
New American BibleFor lack of guidance a people falls; security lies in many counselors.
New Revised Standard VersionWhere there is no guidance, a nation falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleA people who have no leader shall fall; but in the multitude of counsels there is deliverance.
Peshitta Holy Bible TranslatedA people that has no leadership will fall and its salvation is in much counsel. OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917Where no wise direction is, a people falleth; But in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.
Brenton Septuagint TranslationThey that have no guidance fall like leaves: but in much counsel there is safety.
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context Dishonest Scales… 13A gossip reveals a secret, but a trustworthy person keeps a confidence. 14For lackof guidance,a nationfalls,but with manycounselorscomes deliverance.15He who puts up security for a stranger will surely suffer, but the one who hates indebtedness is secure.…
Cross References Proverbs 15:22Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.
Proverbs 24:6Only with sound guidance should you wage war, and victory lies in a multitude of counselors.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor. / For if one falls down, his companion can lift him up; but pity the one who falls without another to help him up! / Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; but how can one keep warm alone? ...
James 1:5Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.
James 3:17But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peace-loving, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere.
1 Kings 12:6-8Then King Rehoboam consulted with the elders who had served his father Solomon during his lifetime. “How do you advise me to respond to these people?” he asked. / They replied, “If you will be a servant to these people and serve them this day, and if you will respond by speaking kind words to them, they will be your servants forever.” / But Rehoboam rejected the advice of the elders; instead, he consulted the young men who had grown up with him and served him.
2 Chronicles 20:21-22Then Jehoshaphat consulted with the people and appointed those who would sing to the LORD and praise the splendor of His holiness. As they went out before the army, they were singing: “Give thanks to the LORD, for His loving devotion endures forever.” / The moment they began their shouts and praises, the LORD set ambushes against the men of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir who had come against Judah, and they were defeated.
Acts 15:6-29So the apostles and elders met to look into this matter. / After much discussion, Peter got up and said to them, “Brothers, you know that in the early days God made a choice among you that the Gentiles would hear from my lips the message of the gospel and believe. / And God, who knows the heart, showed His approval by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as He did to us. ...
Matthew 18:16But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’
1 Corinthians 12:12-27The body is a unit, though it is composed of many parts. And although its parts are many, they all form one body. So it is with Christ. / For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, slave or free, and we were all given one Spirit to drink. / For the body does not consist of one part, but of many. ...
Exodus 18:19-24Now listen to me; I will give you some advice, and may God be with you. You must be the people’s representative before God and bring their causes to Him. / Teach them the statutes and laws, and show them the way to live and the work they must do. / Furthermore, select capable men from among the people—God-fearing, trustworthy men who are averse to dishonest gain. Appoint them over the people as leaders of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens. ...
Isaiah 1:26I will restore your judges as at first, and your counselors as at the beginning. After that you will be called the City of Righteousness, the Faithful City.”
Isaiah 9:6For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be upon His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Daniel 2:14-23When Arioch, the commander of the king’s guard, went out to execute the wise men of Babylon, Daniel responded with discretion and tact. / “Why is the decree from the king so harsh?” he asked. Then Arioch explained the situation to Daniel. / So Daniel went in and asked the king to give him some time, so that he could give him the interpretation. ...
Luke 14:28-32Which of you, wishing to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost to see if he has the resources to complete it? / Otherwise, if he lays the foundation and is unable to finish the work, everyone who sees it will ridicule him, / saying, ‘This man could not finish what he started to build.’ ...
Treasury of Scripture Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety. Proverbs 15:22 Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellers they are established. Proverbs 16:22 Understandingis a wellspring of life unto him that hath it: but the instruction of foolsis folly. Proverbs 24:6 For by wise counsel thou shalt make thy war: and in multitude of counsellersthere is safety. Jump to Previous AbundanceAdviceAdvisersCounselCounsellorsCounselorsCounselsDeliveranceDirectionFallFallethFallsGuidanceGuidesHelpingLackMultitudeNationSafeSafetySuggestionSureVictoryWiseJump to Next AbundanceAdviceAdvisersCounselCounsellorsCounselorsCounselsDeliveranceDirectionFallFallethFallsGuidanceGuidesHelpingLackMultitudeNationSafeSafetySuggestionSureVictoryWiseProverbs 11 1.On DeceptionFor lack of guidance, a nation fallsThis phrase emphasizes the importance of wise leadership and counsel. In the biblical context, Israel's history shows that when leaders lacked divine guidance, the nation often faced turmoil and defeat. The book of Judges repeatedly states, "In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes" ( Judges 21:25), illustrating the chaos that ensues without proper leadership. The Hebrew word for "guidance" can also mean "direction" or "counsel," indicating the necessity of strategic planning and wisdom. Historically, nations that ignored wise counsel often faced downfall, as seen in the stories of the kings of Israel and Judah who turned away from God's prophets. but with many counselors comes deliverance
This part of the verse highlights the value of seeking multiple perspectives and the safety found in collective wisdom. In ancient Israel, kings often consulted prophets, priests, and wise men before making decisions. Solomon, known for his wisdom, exemplified this practice by surrounding himself with advisors. The concept of "many counselors" suggests a multitude of advisors, which can prevent the pitfalls of singular, flawed decision-making. This principle is echoed in other scriptures, such asProverbs 15:22, "Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed." Theologically, this can be seen as a type of Christ, who embodies perfect wisdom and is the ultimate counselor, as prophesied inIsaiah 9:6, "And he will be called Wonderful Counselor." Persons / Places / Events 1. SolomonTraditionally regarded as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. His insights into leadership and governance are reflected in this verse. 2. IsraelThe nation of Israel serves as a backdrop for the wisdom literature, including Proverbs. The verse reflects the importance of wise counsel in the governance and stability of a nation. 3. CounselorsIn the context of ancient Israel, counselors were advisors to the king or leaders, providing wisdom and guidance. Their role was crucial in decision-making processes. Teaching Points The Necessity of GuidanceWithout guidance, individuals and nations are prone to failure. Seeking wisdom from others is crucial for success and stability. The Value of Multiple PerspectivesEngaging with a variety of counselors provides a broader perspective, leading to more informed and balanced decisions. The Role of Humility in LeadershipEffective leaders recognize their limitations and the need for input from others, demonstrating humility and openness to advice. The Importance of Godly CounselCounsel should be sought from those who are godly and wise, ensuring that advice aligns with biblical principles. Application in Personal LifeIn personal decision-making, seeking advice from trusted, godly individuals can lead to better outcomes and spiritual growth. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1.What is the meaning of Proverbs 11:14?
2.How does Proverbs 11:14 emphasize the importance of wise counsel in decision-making?
3.What are the consequences of lacking guidance, according to Proverbs 11:14?
4.How can we identify trustworthy "abundance of counselors" in our lives?
5.What other Bible verses stress the value of seeking wise counsel?
6.How can Proverbs 11:14 guide us in making personal and community decisions?
7.How does Proverbs 11:14 emphasize the importance of seeking guidance in decision-making?
8.What historical context influenced the writing of Proverbs 11:14?
9.How does Proverbs 11:14 relate to leadership and governance?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 11?
11.What are the benefits of diverse advice?
12.What does the Bible say about decision making?
13.Should Christians become members of labor unions?
14.How are Church Business Meetings conducted effectively?What Does Proverbs 11:14 Mean For lack of guidance“Where there is no guidance, a people fall” (Proverbs 11:14a). Solomon states a plain cause-and-effect: if wholesome, godly direction is missing, collapse is certain. • Guidance here is broad—strategic leadership for a nation (Judges 21:25) and personal counsel for individuals (Proverbs 12:15). • God repeatedly warns against self-reliance: “Woe to the rebellious children … who carry out a plan, but not Mine” (Isaiah 30:1). • Even kings needed divine direction: David paused to inquire of the LORD before battle (2 Samuel 5:19, 23). When leaders skip that step, chaos follows (Joshua 9:14).
A nation fallsThe word “nation” reminds us that unguided failure is communal. Internal discord, moral erosion, and poor decisions topple kingdoms (Isaiah 19:2–3). • Rehoboam ignored the elders’ advice and the kingdom split (1 Kings 12:8–19). • Israel’s repeated cycles in Judges show how leaderless periods led to oppression (Judges 2:11–15). • Throughout Scripture political ruin is traced not to chance but to rejected wisdom (Proverbs 29:18, KJV “Where there is no vision, the people perish”).
But with many counselorsGod’s antidote is an abundance of qualified voices. “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22). • “Many” stresses diversity of godly insight—family elders (Deuteronomy 32:7), prophets (2 Chronicles 20:20), and skilled administrators (Nehemiah 2:17–18). • Counselors must share reverence for the LORD (Psalm 1:1;1 Corinthians 15:33 warns of corrupt company). • Jethro’s advice to Moses illustrates multiplying capable helpers to carry the load (Exodus 18:17–24).
Comes deliveranceWhen wise counsel is heeded, “deliverance” (or “victory”) follows—freedom from threats, mistakes, and God’s judgment. • Jehoshaphat gathered prophets before war, and Judah was spared (2 Chronicles 20:14–30). • The early church resolved doctrinal crisis through collective discussion and Scripture (Acts 15:6–22), preserving unity and mission. • Deliverance is ultimately from the LORD, yet He delights to work through collaborative wisdom (Psalm 33:10–11;Proverbs 21:31).
summaryProverbs 11:14 teaches that ignoring godly direction leads inevitably to communal collapse, while surrounding ourselves with many faithful, Scripture-shaped advisers opens the door for God to rescue and prosper us. Every sphere—home, church, workplace, nation—thrives when leaders and followers alike seek and submit to wise, biblical counsel. (14) In the multitude of counsellors there is safety-- i.e.,where there are plenty to guide the state. Verse 14. - Where no counsel is. The word properly means "steersmanship," "pilotage" ( Proverbs 1:5; Proverbs 12:5; Proverbs 24:6). So Vulgate , gubernator; Septuagint, κυβέρνησις, "They who have no government fall like leaves," reading alim instead of am. In the multitude of counsellors ( Proverbs 15:22; Proverbs 20:18; Proverbs 24:6). This would go to prove the superiority of a popular government over the despotism of a single ruler. But the caution of our homely proverb is net inopportune, "Too many cooks spoil the broth."
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew For lackבְּאֵ֣ין(bə·’ên)Preposition-b | Adverb
Strong's 369:A non-entity, a negative particleof guidance,תַּ֭חְבֻּלוֹת(taḥ·bu·lō·wṯ)Noun - feminine plural
Strong's 8458:Steerage, guidance, a plana nationעָ֑ם(‘ām)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 5971:A people, a tribe, troops, attendants, a flockfalls,יִפָּל־(yip·pāl-)Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 5307:To fall, liebut with manyבְּרֹ֣ב(bə·rōḇ)Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 7230:Multitude, abundance, greatnesscounselorsיוֹעֵֽץ׃(yō·w·‘êṣ)Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 3289:To advise, to deliberate, resolve[comes] deliverance.וּ֝תְשׁוּעָ֗ה(ū·ṯə·šū·‘āh)Conjunctive waw | Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 8668:Deliverance, salvation
Links Proverbs 11:14 NIVProverbs 11:14 NLTProverbs 11:14 ESVProverbs 11:14 NASBProverbs 11:14 KJV
Proverbs 11:14 BibleApps.comProverbs 11:14 Biblia ParalelaProverbs 11:14 Chinese BibleProverbs 11:14 French BibleProverbs 11:14 Catholic Bible
OT Poetry: Proverbs 11:14 Where there is no wise guidance (Prov. Pro Pr) |
