Proverbs 21:2 Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the LORD ponders the hearts.
‘But the LORD ponders the hearts.’ In contrast to human self-assessment, the LORD examines the heart – the inner seat of motives, desires, intentions, and character. God’s judgment is not based merely on outward actions but on what drives them.
The Hebrew word translated “ponder” is tākan (תָּכַן, H8505), meaning to balance, measure, or regulate. It conveys the image of a scale, carefully weighing something to determine its true value. This is not a casual glance but a deliberate, exact evaluation.
The breadth of its usage reinforces this meaning: [1] Weigh (1Sam. 2:3; Job 28:25; Pro. 16:2): God evaluates accurately. [2] Bear up / regulate (Ps. 75:3): God sustains and stabilises what He measures. [3] Meted out (Isa. 40:12): God precisely apportions and governs. [4] Directed (Isa. 40:13): God orders with wisdom and intent.
Thus, when Scripture says the LORD “ponders the hearts,” it affirms that God accurately discerns true motives, distinguishes sincerity from self-deception and judges with perfect knowledge and justice. “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts” (Ps. 139:23).
Living the Word 