Froward Meaning in the Bible: Understanding a Biblical Term of Rebellion

The term froward is an older English word that appears in several translations of the Bible, particularly the King James Version (KJV). Derived from Middle English, froward generally means someone who is willfully disobedient, contrary, or stubborn in opposition. It describes a person who resists authority or refuses to follow what is right and good. While this word may be unfamiliar to modern readers, its biblical usage conveys a strong message about the nature of rebellion and the consequences of moral defiance.

Froward in the King James Bible

In the KJV, froward appears numerous times, often to describe the wicked or those who turn away from righteousness. For example, Proverbs 2:12 says:

“To deliver thee from the way of the evil man, from the man that speaketh froward things.”

Here, a “froward” person is portrayed as one who speaks twisted or perverse things, leading others astray. Similarly, Proverbs 3:32 says:

“For the froward is abomination to the Lord: but his secret is with the righteous.”

This verse emphasizes how seriously God views such rebellion. A froward spirit is not simply flawed—it is deeply opposed to God's ways and an offense to His holiness.

Frowardness as Rebellion Against God

Biblically, frowardness is more than just being difficult or hard to deal with; it signifies a heart that is perverse, proud, and willfully opposed to God’s commands. In Psalm 18:26, David writes:

“With the pure thou wilt shew thyself pure; and with the froward thou wilt shew thyself froward.”

This verse reveals that God's dealings with people reflect their own posture toward Him. Those who are froward will experience the resistance of God Himself. It is a sobering reminder that rebellion invites divine opposition, and that God cannot be manipulated or mocked.

Modern Translations and Interpretations

Many modern Bible translations replace the word froward with terms such as “perverse,” “crooked,” “rebellious,” or “deceitful” to better capture its meaning in contemporary language. For instance, the New International Version (NIV) renders Proverbs 3:32 as:

“For the Lord detests the perverse but takes the upright into his confidence.”

These updates help readers understand that froward characterizes not just bad behavior but a deep moral corruption—often involving twisting truth, rejecting correction, or leading others into sin.

Application for Believers Today

Though the term froward may sound outdated, its biblical message is timeless. It challenges us to examine our hearts for stubbornness, pride, or resistance to God’s will. Are there areas where we persist in our own way despite knowing God's direction? Are we willing to submit to God's truth, or do we try to twist it to suit our desires?

The Bible teaches that God desires a humble, obedient heart. In contrast to the froward person, the righteous seek wisdom, love correction, and walk in integrity. Recognizing and repenting of a froward spirit is part of the believer’s journey toward holiness and deeper relationship with God.

Conclusion

The word froward may seem foreign today, but its meaning is rich with spiritual insight. It warns against a life of resistance, deception, and moral perversion, and it calls us to walk in alignment with God's ways. In a world that often values independence and self-will, the Bible's teaching on frowardness serves as a countercultural reminder: true strength is found in submission to God, and true wisdom comes from walking uprightly before Him.