Proverbs 12:3 kjv

A man shall not be established by wickedness: but the root of the righteous shall not be moved.

Proverbs 12:3 nkjv

A man is not established by wickedness, But the root of the righteous cannot be moved.

Proverbs 12:3 niv

No one can be established through wickedness, but the righteous cannot be uprooted.

Proverbs 12:3 esv

No one is established by wickedness, but the root of the righteous will never be moved.

Proverbs 12:3 nlt

Wickedness never brings stability,
but the godly have deep roots.

Proverbs 12 verses

Proverbs 12 3 Meaning

This proverb succinctly communicates that true and lasting stability in life is not achieved through unrighteousness or wickedness. While some may attempt to secure their positions or prosper through deceit, oppression, or other ungodly means, such establishments are inherently unstable and fleeting. In stark contrast, those whose lives are rooted in righteousness possess a deep, internal, and unshakeable foundation, providing them with enduring security and resilience against the trials and uncertainties of life. The proverb declares God's moral order, where genuine firmness is always found in alignment with divine truth, not in the pursuit of evil.

Proverbs 12 3 Context

Proverbs 12, like much of the book of Proverbs, contrasts the characteristics and outcomes of the righteous and the wicked. It frequently employs antithetical parallelism, presenting opposing truths side-by-side to highlight the wisdom of one path over the folly of another. This verse directly participates in that overarching theme, following principles about finding favor with God through goodness versus receiving condemnation for evil plans. Historically and culturally, ancient societies deeply valued stability, security, and a lasting legacy. Concepts like "established" (נכון, nakon) and "root" (שׁרֶשׁ, shoresh) would resonate profoundly, symbolizing an enduring household, dynasty, or individual well-being against the transient nature of existence, often at the mercy of natural disasters or political upheavals. The proverb would subtly counter any popular belief that quick gains or worldly power obtained through unethical means could ever provide true, lasting security, affirming divine justice.

Proverbs 12 3 Word analysis

• A man: ('iysh, אִישׁ) Refers generally to an individual person. It indicates that this truth applies universally to human beings in their pursuit of life's stability.

• shall not be established: (lo' yikkon, לֹא יִכּוֹן) From the Hebrew root kun (כון), meaning "to be firm, set up, secured, endure." The negative particle lo' ("not") emphasizes that no amount of effort or achievement will bring true, lasting security if its basis is wickedness. It denotes an intrinsic impossibility of firm establishment through ungodly means.

• by wickedness: (b'resha', בְּרֶשַׁע) From resha' (רֶשַׁע), signifying "evil, guilt, unrighteousness, maliciousness." This highlights the corrupt means or character upon which the establishment is attempted. It refers to a life marked by disregard for divine law and justice.

• but: (we, וְ) A strong contrasting conjunction, typical in Proverbs' antithetical parallelism, signaling a shift to the opposite outcome.

• the root: (shoresh, שֹׁרֶשׁ) A powerful metaphor for the core, foundation, source, or origin of life, particularly as in a tree. It symbolizes the inner character, deep moral principles, or spiritual life from which outward stability derives. Unlike a tree's visible trunk, the root is unseen but provides essential sustenance and anchorage.

• of the righteous: (tzaddiqim, צַדִּיקִים) Plural of tzaddiq (צַדִּיק), meaning "just, upright, morally correct, conforming to divine standard." This specifies that stability is tied to a life lived in accordance with God's will and truth.

• shall not be moved: (lo' yimma'ed, לֹא יִמּוֹט) From mot (מוֹט), meaning "to totter, waver, shake, stumble, fall." The negation emphasizes invulnerability to collapse or dislodgement. It describes a deep, inherent resilience that resists external pressures and internal decay, rooted in an unbreakable moral and spiritual foundation.

• Words-group by words-group analysis:

  • "A man shall not be established by wickedness": This phrase warns against the futility of building one's life, reputation, or fortune upon dishonest, unjust, or immoral foundations. While initial appearances might suggest success, the lack of divine endorsement and the inherent instability of sin mean such establishments cannot last or provide true security. Their stability is superficial, lacking integrity from its very core.
  • "but the root of the righteous shall not be moved": This phrase reveals the true source of enduring stability. It's not in outward accomplishments or possessions, but in the internal character, represented by a deep "root." This spiritual and moral foundation, nurtured by righteousness (a right standing and living before God), makes a person resilient against life's storms and challenges. Their stability is profound, permanent, and divine in origin.

Proverbs 12 3 Bonus section

• The proverb illustrates God's unyielding moral governance of the world, where righteousness ultimately secures and wickedness ultimately unravels. This is not merely an observational truth but a divine promise.
• The "root" metaphor also implies a source of life and growth, not just stability. A strong root allows for flourishing and fruit-bearing (as seen in Ps 92:12 and Jer 17:8), suggesting that the righteousness is a fount of true vitality and blessed productivity in life.
• The emphasis on "root" suggests that true stability comes from a hidden, inner work of character, contrasting with the often public and visible display of worldly "establishment" or power obtained through unrighteous means.

Proverbs 12 3 Commentary

Proverbs 12:3 serves as a foundational declaration of divine order concerning human success and stability. It asserts that true security and lasting establishment can never be founded on wickedness. While temporary gains may be made through unrighteousness, these are depicted as superficial and destined to fail, akin to a structure built without a proper foundation. The wisdom lies in understanding that external achievements devoid of moral integrity ultimately collapse because they operate outside of God's unchanging principles of justice.

In sharp contrast, the righteous, though they may face trials, possess an intrinsic stability symbolized by a deep "root." This metaphor conveys an hidden source of life and strength, indicating that their firmness is not contingent on outward circumstances but flows from their upright character and relationship with God. This rootedness provides an unwavering foundation, enabling them to withstand adversities and remain secure. The proverb teaches that divine approval, born from righteousness, yields an indestructible foundation, ensuring that integrity is the only true path to genuine, enduring well-being.