Proverbs 11:17
A man who is kind benefits himself, but a cruel man hurts himself.
In context
14 Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety. 15 Whoever puts up security for a stranger will surely suffer harm, but he who hates striking hands in pledge is secure. 16 A gracious woman gets honor, and violent men get riches.
17 A man who is kind benefits himself, but a cruel man hurts himself. 18 The wicked earns deceptive wages, but one who sows righteousness gets a sure reward. 19 Whoever is steadfast in righteousness will live, but he who pursues evil will die. 20 Those of crooked heart are an abomination to the Lord, but those of blameless ways are his delight.
Compare in other versions
- KJV King James Version
— Proverbs 11:17 in the KJV
The merciful man doeth good to his own soul: But he that is cruel troubleth his own flesh.
- NIV New International Version
— Proverbs 11:17 in the NIV
Those who are kind benefit themselves, but the cruel bring ruin on themselves.