Proverbs 27:17 · KJV
Proverbs 27:17
Iron Sharpens Iron
Proverbs 27:17 says, "Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend" — we are shaped and strengthened by close, honest friendships.
Proverbs 27:17 (KJV)
“Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.”
What Proverbs 27:17 means
"Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend." The image is of two blades honing each other — friction that makes both sharper. Real friendship is not always comfortable; it challenges, refines, and improves.
The verse celebrates the value of people who speak truth to us and make us better. It is a favourite for friendship, mentorship, and accountability — a reminder that we grow through relationship, not in isolation.
Key verse
“Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.”
Proverbs 27:17 · KJV — Friends sharpen one another.
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A prayer from Proverbs 27:17
Lord, thank You for friends who sharpen me. Give me people who speak truth into my life, and help me be that kind of friend to others. Amen.
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Frequently asked
What does Proverbs 27:17 mean?
Proverbs 27:17 says, "Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend" — we are shaped and strengthened by close, honest friendships.
What is Proverbs 27:17 about?
"Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend." The image is of two blades honing each other — friction that makes both sharper. Real friendship is not always comfortable; it challenges, refines, and improves.
What is the key verse in Proverbs 27:17?
Proverbs 27:17 — “Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.”
Is Proverbs 27:17 in the King James Version?
Yes. The full text of Proverbs 27:17 on this page is the King James Version (KJV), which is in the public domain.