3:32

Notice the parallel parts that contrast in meaning:

32a for the LORD detests the perverse,

32b but He is a friend to the upright.

3:32a

for: This word introduces the reason why the son should not envy a criminal or follow his example. In some languages, a specific word may not be needed. For example:

Such wicked people are detestable to the Lord (New Living Translation (2004))

the LORD detests: The phrase the LORD detests is literally “abomination of the LORD.” This is a very strong expression. It refers to offenses that the LORD considers “abhorrent” (New Jerusalem Bible), “disgusting” (God’s Word), repulsive, or nauseating. The Good News Translation and New Century Version use a more general expression:

the Lord hates (Good News Translation, New Century Version)

But a stronger expression would be preferable if one is available.

the perverse: The Hebrew word that the Berean Standard Bible translates as the perverse is based on a verb that means “to turn aside from the right path.” Here it refers figuratively to a person who deliberately turns away from what is right in order to do what is wrong or deceitful. The same word is used in 2:15b. See the note on 2:15a–b.

Some ways to translate this word are:

people who do evil (Good News Translation)
-or-
a willful wrong-doer (New Jerusalem Bible)
-or-
anyone who is dishonest (Contemporary English Version)

In some languages, it may be more natural to express this idea with a verb phrase. For example:

those who deceive others

Notice that “the perverse” in this verse is parallel to “a violent man” in 3:31. Both phrases refer to the same kind of person. The New Living Translation (2004) makes this clear by beginning 3:32 with:

Such wicked people… (New Living Translation (2004))

3:32b

but He is a friend to the upright: In Hebrew, this clause is literally “but with the upright (is) his-sod.” The Hebrew word sod refers to an intimate and confidential relationship. It implies close fellowship and private conversation. Thus it also implies trust or confidence. Other ways to translate this clause are:

but he reveals his intimate counsel to the upright (NET Bible)
-or-
but he offers his friendship to the godly (New Living Translation (2004))

the upright: The Hebrew word that the Berean Standard Bible translates as the upright refers to people who are “righteous” (Good News Translation), who do what is right and just. See the note on 2:7a.

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