Proverbs 4:14 kjv

Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men.

Proverbs 4:14 nkjv

Do not enter the path of the wicked, And do not walk in the way of evil.

Proverbs 4:14 niv

Do not set foot on the path of the wicked or walk in the way of evildoers.

Proverbs 4:14 esv

Do not enter the path of the wicked, and do not walk in the way of the evil.

Proverbs 4:14 nlt

Don't do as the wicked do,
and don't follow the path of evildoers.

Proverbs 4 verses

Proverbs 4 14 Meaning

Proverbs 4:14 presents a stern, dual prohibition against any engagement with the wicked and their ways. It directly warns the individual against stepping onto or proceeding along the course of life characterized by those who are morally corrupt and in rebellion against divine instruction. This is not merely an admonition against specific evil actions but a comprehensive caution against aligning with, adopting the mindset of, or drawing near to the fundamental path chosen by those opposed to righteousness. It underscores the preventative nature of wisdom, advising avoidance of initial entry and sustained participation in corrupting influences to safeguard one's spiritual and moral integrity.

Proverbs 4 14 Context

Proverbs chapter 4 serves as a heartfelt paternal instruction, a didactic discourse from a wise father (King Solomon, echoing David's teaching) to his son, urging the fervent pursuit and retention of wisdom. The entire chapter emphasizes wisdom as the paramount possession, worth more than riches or power, essential for a flourishing life. Verses 10-13 establish the benefits of wisdom's paths, promising length of days, peace, security, and guidance. Against this positive backdrop, verse 14 acts as a sharp counterpoint, issuing a direct prohibition to safeguard the son from diverging into destructive ways. It immediately precedes verses 15-19, which vividly contrast the safe, clear path of the righteous with the treacherous, stumbling, dark path of the wicked, underscoring the vital necessity of obeying the command in verse 14. Historically, such parental instruction was crucial in Israelite society for moral and spiritual formation, warning against the seductions of idolatrous or unethical practices prevalent in surrounding cultures.

Proverbs 4 14 Word analysis

• Do not (אַל - ʾal): This is a strong negative particle in Hebrew, typically used for prohibitions, indicating a direct command not to do something. It implies an urgent warning, requiring absolute avoidance.
• enter (תָבֹא - tāḇōʾ): From the verb בּוֹא (boʾ), meaning "to come," "to go in," "to enter." In the imperfect tense, it denotes an ongoing action or prohibition against starting or initiating the action. It implies a conscious choice to set foot on a particular course. This is a preventative command against taking the very first step.
• the path (בְּאֹרַח - bĕʾōraḥ): The preposition bĕ- ("in" or "into") and אֹרַח (ʾōraḥ) refers to a beaten track, a lane, or a specific route. Unlike the more general dereḵ (way), ʾōraḥ can suggest a defined trajectory or a specific course of action, often with connotations of habitual travel. It indicates not just a temporary diversion, but the choice of a life direction.
• of the wicked (רְשָׁעִים - rĕšāʿīm): Plural of רָשָׁע (rāšāʿ), which signifies one who is "guilty," "unrighteous," "wicked," or "impious." It describes those who defy God's law, are in rebellion against His authority, and habitually choose actions that are morally wrong. It characterizes a state of being and an intrinsic character, not just isolated bad acts.
• and do not (וְאַל - wĕʾal): The conjunction wĕ- ("and") links the second prohibition directly to the first, reinforcing it. Again, the strong negative ʾal.
• walk (תְּאַשֵּׁר - təʾaššēr): From the verb אָשַׁר (ʾāšar), meaning "to be straight," "to go straight," "to guide," "to make progress." Here, in the Pilpel stem, it signifies to "go on" or "proceed" in a particular way. This goes beyond tāḇōʾ (entering) and emphasizes continuing or advancing in that path. It suggests prolonged association and activity.
• in the way (בְּדֶרֶךְ - bĕdereḵ): The preposition bĕ- again, with דֶּרֶךְ (dereḵ), which is a broader term than ʾōraḥ. Dereḵ denotes a road, a course of life, behavior, or even a general conduct or habit. It encompasses the principles and lifestyle chosen by individuals.
• of evil (רָעִים - rāʿīm): Plural of רָע (raʿ), meaning "bad," "evil," "wicked," "calamity," or "adversity." Here it refers to moral evil, destructive actions, or corruption. This term highlights the nature and consequences of the wicked's dereḵ.

Words-Group Analysis:

• "the path of the wicked" (ʾōraḥ rĕšāʿīm): This phrase describes a distinct course of life taken by those who are characteristically disobedient to God. It highlights the structured nature of their choices and activities that deviate from divine standards.
• "the way of evil" (dereḵ rāʿīm): This is a powerful parallel, often seen in Proverbs. While "path" might suggest the actual physical or behavioral route, "way" implies the broader lifestyle, moral framework, or principle that guides actions. The term "evil" here unequivocally defines the quality and destructive outcome of that way, connecting behavior to inherent corruption. The parallelism reinforces the comprehensive nature of the prohibition, encompassing both the specific course (path) and the general lifestyle (way) characterized by wickedness and moral corruption. The instruction targets both initial involvement and continued participation.

Proverbs 4 14 Bonus section

The strong prohibition in this verse reflects an understanding of the insidious and contagious nature of moral corruption. It's not enough to merely avoid being wicked; one must actively avoid the company and influences that lead to wickedness. This command is an appeal for discernment, not only concerning actions but also concerning associations and environments. The danger lies in the seductive pull of ungodly paths, often presented with perceived benefits or immediate gratification, masking their ultimate destructive ends. The instruction implies that choosing a path is choosing an identity and destiny. From a spiritual perspective, adherence to this verse builds hedges against spiritual decline, allowing the individual to remain clean and undefiled. The father's teaching prioritizes protection and preservation over curiosity or complacency regarding sin.

Proverbs 4 14 Commentary

Proverbs 4:14 serves as a critical warning, embedded within the larger exhortation to embrace wisdom. Its essence is preventive: to avoid engaging with the system and lifestyle of the wicked from the very outset. The twin prohibitions – "do not enter" and "do not walk" – emphasize a complete and utter severance. "Do not enter" speaks to the first step, the initial temptation, the point of decision where one might choose to venture into morally compromising territory. "Do not walk" refers to continued progression, establishing a habitual pattern, and fully committing to such a life. This highlights that exposure to evil, even if not fully embraced initially, can lead to gradual enticement and eventual adoption of wicked practices. The sage recognizes that even momentary curiosity or seemingly harmless association can be a slippery slope. The ultimate call is for discernment and steadfast adherence to the righteous path taught by wisdom, seeing separation from wickedness as fundamental to spiritual protection and genuine flourishing. This instruction serves as a constant reminder that ethical living requires active resistance to societal and personal temptations to align with that which is contrary to God's will.