Proverbs 15:9 kjv

The way of the wicked is an abomination unto the LORD: but he loveth him that followeth after righteousness.

Proverbs 15:9 nkjv

The way of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD, But He loves him who follows righteousness.

Proverbs 15:9 niv

The LORD detests the way of the wicked, but he loves those who pursue righteousness.

Proverbs 15:9 esv

The way of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD, but he loves him who pursues righteousness.

Proverbs 15:9 nlt

The LORD detests the way of the wicked,
but he loves those who pursue godliness.

Proverbs 15 verses

Proverbs 15 9 Meaning

Proverbs 15:9 declares a profound dichotomy in God's divine perspective: He finds the very lifestyle and conduct of the wicked utterly repulsive and morally abhorrent, while simultaneously extending His deep affection and approval to those who diligently strive for righteousness. It underscores that God is not indifferent to human behavior, but actively judges wickedness and cherishes uprightness.

Proverbs 15 9 Context

Proverbs chapter 15, like much of the book, operates on the principle of antithetical parallelism, contrasting opposing virtues and vices, and their respective consequences or divine responses. Verse 9 is a quintessential example, drawing a stark line between two distinct "ways" or life paths. It follows a verse (15:8) that declares God's aversion to the sacrifices of the wicked, underscoring that outward religious rituals are meaningless without an internal disposition of righteousness.

Historically, this proverb reflects ancient Near Eastern wisdom traditions that often observed cause and effect in the moral realm. However, within the biblical framework, it firmly roots these observations in the character of Yahweh. It subtly polemicizes against any belief system—whether pagan polytheism, syncretism, or mere humanistic self-reliance—that would suggest moral choices are inconsequential to a deity, or that divine favor could be bought or appeased without genuine moral integrity. For the original Israelite audience, this reinforced the covenantal expectation of ethical living as fundamental to their relationship with God, distinguishing Yahweh from other gods perceived as capricious or less morally demanding.

Proverbs 15 9 Word analysis

• The way (דֶּרֶךְ, derekh): This term signifies more than a mere physical path; it profoundly denotes a course of life, a lifestyle, a mode of conduct, or a moral trajectory. It encapsulates a person's entire behavior and underlying character.

• of the wicked (רְשָׁעִים, r'sha'im): Plural. Refers to those who are morally evil, ungodly, unrighteous, and rebellious against divine law. This is a habitual state of being, a life characterized by sin.

• is an abomination (תּוֹעֲבַת, to'evat): From the Hebrew word תּוֹעֵבָה (to'evah), which expresses extreme loathing, repugnance, or abhorrence. It denotes something utterly detestable, an anathema, a strong moral disgust that violates God's holy character. This is not merely dislike but absolute rejection.

• to the LORD (יְהוָה, Yahweh): Explicitly names the covenant God of Israel, indicating that this moral standard and judgment originates from His very nature and authority, not human subjective opinion.

• but He loves (וְאֹהֵב, v'ohev): From אָהַב (ahav), signifying deep affection, preference, delight, and positive regard. This starkly contrasts the "abomination" previously mentioned, highlighting God's intensely opposing emotions.

• him who follows (מְרַדֵּף, m'raddef): A present participle, meaning "one who pursues," "chases after," "seeks earnestly," or "strives diligently for." This implies an active, intentional, and continuous effort. It's not passive acceptance, but an ongoing, determined endeavor.

• righteousness (צְדָקָה, tzedaqah): Righteousness in Hebrew context means moral integrity, uprightness, justice, and conformity to God's revealed will and ethical standards. It encompasses fair dealings, upright character, and honorable conduct in all aspects of life.

• Words-group analysis:

  • "The way of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD": This phrase asserts God's unwavering moral standard and His absolute intolerance for lives defined by sin and unrighteousness. It implies divine judgment and ultimate separation for those on this path.
  • "but He loves him who follows righteousness": This segment offers hope and clarity regarding God's favor. It reveals His benevolent disposition towards those who earnestly, actively, and consistently align their lives with His moral character and commands, highlighting the divine reward for such pursuit.

Proverbs 15 9 Bonus section

The Hebrew word to'evah (abomination) used for the "way of the wicked" is extremely potent. It is used extensively in the Torah, particularly Leviticus and Deuteronomy, for practices that utterly violate the holiness and purity laws, such as idolatry (Deut 7:25), child sacrifice (Deut 18:12), certain sexual sins (Lev 18:22, 29), and unjust weights (Deut 25:16). Applying this term to a general "way" or lifestyle of wickedness underscores that systemic unrighteousness is as offensive to God as these egregious specific sins, demonstrating His holistic demand for ethical integrity in all aspects of life. The active participle m'raddef for "follows" (pursues) emphasizes perseverance. It’s a lifelong orientation and commitment, not a one-time decision. This commitment to pursuing righteousness is often depicted elsewhere in Scripture as God's grace empowering such a pursuit (Phil 2:13) and leading to true life and peace.

Proverbs 15 9 Commentary

Proverbs 15:9 lays bare a foundational truth about God's character and His interaction with humanity. It unequivocally states that God holds a deeply personal and opposing stance on distinct human life paths. The "way of the wicked" represents a lifestyle marked by rebellion, injustice, and a disregard for divine standards—a path God views with profound disgust (to'evah). This isn't merely a casual dislike, but an inherent incompatibility with His holy nature.

Conversely, God's affection (ahav) is directed towards "him who follows righteousness." This emphasizes that God loves those who actively pursue ethical conduct, justice, and conformity to His will. It's not about achieving sinless perfection, but about the diligent, earnest effort and the desire to live righteously. This pursuit reflects a heart oriented towards God, valuing what He values. Thus, the proverb assures that genuine moral pursuit, rather than superficial religious observance (as seen in Prov 15:8), attracts divine favor and blessing, making clear the direct link between character and God's disposition.