Proverbs 4:14
Do not enter the path of the wicked, and do not walk in the way of the evil.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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The verse uses two distinct actions, "enter not" and "go not," to emphasize that we must avoid even the initial step onto the wrong path and, if we do stray, we must not continue or persevere in it. This shows that the warning isn't just about avoiding deep involvement, but about guarding against even the slightest deviation from righteousness.
This passage comes as a direct warning from a father to his son, following instruction on the value of wisdom and the consequences of disregarding it. Having emphasized the importance of heeding wisdom's teachings, the father now urges his son to actively shun the company and practices of those who live wickedly, warning that such a path leads only to ruin.
Ever feel like a small compromise doesn't really matter? The Bible warns us that even the beginning of evil can lead you astray.
The verse uses two strong verbs: "enter not" and "go not." This isn't just about avoiding a life of crime; it's about guarding the very first steps.
The danger is that a seemingly small step can lead to further involvement. The scholars point out that one shouldn't "delight in" or "envy" the ways of the wicked, because what looks appealing initially can lead to ruin.
Why are the paths of the wicked so tempting? The Bible reveals they often mask a dangerous reality.
The 'path of the wicked' and the 'way of evil men' often appear appealing on the surface. However, the proverb cautions us not to be deceived by this appearance.
Understand the original words
rasha · Hebrew Noun/Adjective
A term describing those who lack moral character or who act in opposition to God’s laws. They are characterized by their departure from the path of righteousness and their influence upon those who follow their ways.
ra'ah · Hebrew Adjective/Noun
Refers to moral baseness, harm, or worthlessness. In a biblical context, it signifies actions or people that are fundamentally opposed to God's character and cause ruin to oneself and others.
This Psalm directly contrasts the 'path of the wicked' with the 'way of the righteous,' mirroring Proverbs' warning against evil associations.
Proverbs 1:10-15This passage offers a more detailed description of the wicked's enticements and the dire consequences of following their counsel, reinforcing the warning in Proverbs 4:14.
Romans 12:2This New Testament passage urges believers not to conform to the world's patterns, echoing the spirit of Proverbs' admonition to avoid the ways of the ungodly.
1 Corinthians 15:33This verse directly warns against bad company, stating that 'evil communications corrupt good intentions,' which is a direct parallel to the danger of entering the path of the wicked.
2 Corinthians 6:14This verse calls for separation from unbelievers and the ungodly, emphasizing the importance of not yoking oneself with those who walk in wicked ways.
gillProverbs 4:14: "Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men."
Enter not into the path of the wicked,.... Which leads to eternal death; join not with them in their wicked ways and practices; have no fellowship, keep no company, with them; do not set one foot in the path they tread, lest thou shouldest be tempted to proceed to more ungodliness; you do not know where and when there will be a stop, when once you begin, therefore enter not. The Vulgate Latin version is,…
pulpitProverbs 4:14: "Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men."
Verse 14. - From admonition the father passes to warning. The connection with the preceding section is obvious. There are two ways diametrically opposite - the way of wisdom and the way of evil; the one the way of life, the other fraught with death, because a way of darkness and violence. As the father has dealt with the former, so now he deals with the latter. With these warnings we may also comp. Prover…
The verse uses two distinct actions, "enter not" and "go not," to emphasize that we must avoid even the initial step onto the wrong path and, if we do stray, we must not continue or persevere in it. This shows that the warning isn't just about avoiding deep involvement, but about guarding against even the slightest deviation from righteousness.
This passage comes as a direct warning from a father to his son, following instruction on the value of wisdom and the consequences of disregarding it. Having emphasized the importance of heeding wisdom's teachings, the father now urges his son to actively shun the company and practices of those who live wickedly, warning that such a path leads only to ruin.
This passage comes as a direct warning from a father to his son, following instruction on the value of wisdom and the consequences of disregarding it. Having emphasized the importance of heeding wisdom's teachings, the father now urges his son to actively shun the company and practices of those who live wickedly, warning that such a path leads only to ruin.
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It's not enough to just not do evil; we must actively avoid its influence. What does deliberate avoidance look like?
The verse commands not just passive abstinence but active avoidance. This is a crucial distinction for living a life guided by wisdom.
The ultimate goal is to protect the inner life and ensure that one's journey is one of increasing light, not stumbling in darkness.
"Do not enter the path of the wicked, and do not walk in the way of the evil." — The verse uses two distinct actions, "enter not" and "go not," to emphasize that we must avoid even the initial step onto the wrong path and, if we do stray, we must not continue or persevere in it.…
