Expert: Scott Talbot - 12/29/2008

Question
Why does Proverbs 6:16 use number six and seven to explain what the Lord does not like?

Sincerely,
Lenin

Answer
Hi Lenin,

You ask an excellent question. The syntax in this passage reflects a unique way of expressing thought in the Hebrew language. In the original Hebrew, it actually reads as follows: "These six things the Lord hates. The seventh is an abomination to him."

What the passage is saying is this. God hates the first six things on the list. But the seventh thing--stirring up dissension among brothers--He REALLY hates!

That's interesting when you think about it. One of the things that God hates even more than other sins is the sin of division and discord among His people. The converse of this is that God desires greatly that His children come together in unity and in harmony--no, not in a way that sacrifices truth or compromises God's values, but in a way that conveys genuine love and care. This love springs from the fact that they belong to God. If God loves them dearly, enough to sacrifice the life of His Son to have a personal relationship with them, then each of us ought also to love them in the same sacrificial way.

When asked what is the greatest command, Jesus replied: Love God with all your heart, soul, and mind. And the second command is like it--love your neighbor as yourself. Jesus also reflected God's ultimate desire for unity in John 17, when He prayed the night before His death that we would be one, even as He and the Father are one.

I hope this helps. Feel free to write back.

Scott