Proverbs 1:19
Such are the ways of everyone who is greedy for unjust gain; it takes away the life of its possessors.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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The verse highlights a subtle but powerful truth: greed doesn't just take from others, it ultimately destroys the greedy person from within. The "life" it takes is not just physical death, but the very essence of their being, their capacity for genuine life and connection, leaving them empty.
This verse concludes a section where Wisdom is warning against the allure of wicked companions who encourage embracing sin. The greedy person, driven by a desire for ill-gotten riches, is characterized not just by their desire for wealth, but by the destructive path they walk, which ultimately leads to ruin and the loss of life, both literally and spiritually.
Understand the original words
orach · Hebrew Noun
Paths or courses of life; the habits, manners, or moral trajectory that a person follows. Biblically, one's "way" reflects their inner character and ultimate destiny.
betsa · Hebrew Noun
A strong, insatiable desire for wealth, possessions, or profit. It is often linked to idolatry and the neglect of justice and righteousness.
nephesh · Hebrew Noun
The animating principle of humanity or the duration of earthly existence. In this context, it refers to the spiritual and physical vitality that is forfeit through sin.
clarkeProverbs 1:19: "So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof."
Which taketh away the life - A covetous man is in effect, and in the sight of God, a murderer; he wishes to get all the gain that can accrue to any or all who are in the same business that he follows - no matter to him how many families starve in consequence. This is the very case with him who sets up shop after shop in different parts of the same town or neighborhood, in whic…
pooleProverbs 1:19: "So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof."
So, as is expressed both in the foregoing and following words, are the ways; the actions and courses, which are so in the tendency and event of them. That is greedy of pain; that seeks gain by unrighteous and wicked practices. Which ; either which greediness ; or rather, which gain , by comparing the last words. Taketh away the lives of the owners thereof; brings sudden and vi…
The verse highlights a subtle but powerful truth: greed doesn't just take from others, it ultimately destroys the greedy person from within. The "life" it takes is not just physical death, but the very essence of their being, their capacity for genuine life and connection, leaving them empty.
This verse concludes a section where Wisdom is warning against the allure of wicked companions who encourage embracing sin. The greedy person, driven by a desire for ill-gotten riches, is characterized not just by their desire for wealth, but by the destructive path they walk, which ultimately leads to ruin and the loss of life, both literally and spiritually.
This verse concludes a section where Wisdom is warning against the allure of wicked companions who encourage embracing sin. The greedy person, driven by a desire for ill-gotten riches, is characterized not just by their desire for wealth, but by the destructive path they walk, which ultimately leads to ruin and the loss of life, both literally and spiritually.
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"Such are the ways of everyone who is greedy for unjust gain; it takes away the life of its possessors." — The verse highlights a subtle but powerful truth: greed doesn't just take from others, it ultimately destroys the greedy person from within. The "life" it takes is not just physical death, but the…
