Proverbs 11:17 - Compare All Versions

Proverbs 11:17 MSG (The Message)

When you’re kind to others, you help yourself; when you’re cruel to others, you hurt yourself.

Proverbs 11:17 KJV (King James Version)

The merciful man doeth good to his own soul: But he that is cruel troubleth his own flesh.

Proverbs 11:17 NASB1995 (New American Standard Bible - NASB 1995)

The merciful man does himself good, But the cruel man does himself harm.

Proverbs 11:17 NCV (New Century Version)

Kind people do themselves a favor, but cruel people bring trouble on themselves.

Proverbs 11:17 ASV (American Standard Version)

The merciful man doeth good to his own soul; But he that is cruel troubleth his own flesh.

Proverbs 11:17 NIV (New International Version)

Those who are kind benefit themselves, but the cruel bring ruin on themselves.

Proverbs 11:17 NKJV (New King James Version)

The merciful man does good for his own soul, But he who is cruel troubles his own flesh.

Proverbs 11:17 AMP (Amplified Bible)

The merciful and generous man benefits his soul [for his behavior returns to bless him], But the cruel and callous man does himself harm.

Proverbs 11:17 NLT (New Living Translation)

Your kindness will reward you, but your cruelty will destroy you.

Proverbs 11:17 TPT (The Passion Translation)

A man of kindness attracts favor, while a cruel man attracts nothing but trouble.

Proverbs 11:17 ESV (English Standard Version 2025)

A man who is kind benefits himself, but a cruel man hurts himself.