Definition: The merciful man doeth good to his own soul: but [he that is] cruel troubleth his own flesh.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful and important verse from Proverbs 11:17. It’s a really insightful message about kindness and how it affects us. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: Essentially, this verse means that being kind and compassionate is good for you , but being cruel or harsh towards others hurts you personally. Let's unpack it a little further: “The merciful man does good to his own soul…” – "Soul" refers to your inner self – your spirit, your emotions, your conscience. “Doing good” means acting with kindness, generosity, and compassion. It’s about treating others with respect and love. "...but [he that is] cruel troubles his own flesh." – This is the crucial part. "Troubles his own flesh" means that when you're cruel or hurtful, it causes pain and suffering within you . It can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, anxiety, depression, and even physical illness. Think of it like a wound on your own heart. So, the whole verse is saying: Kindness creates good for you , while cruelty harms you directly. Why is this important? Proverbs encourages us to be gentle, understanding, and compassionate with others because it ultimately benefits our own well-being. It's a reminder that treating people with respect fosters peace within ourselves. In short, it’s about recognizing the positive impact of kindness and avoiding negativity. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some examples of how kindness can benefit us?