Proverbs 21:10
The soul of the wicked desireth evil: his neighbour findeth no favour in his eyes.
Original Language Analysis
נֶ֣פֶשׁ
The soul
H5315
נֶ֣פֶשׁ
The soul
Strong's:
H5315
Word #:
1 of 8
properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
רָ֭שָׁע
of the wicked
H7563
רָ֭שָׁע
of the wicked
Strong's:
H7563
Word #:
2 of 8
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
לֹא
H3808
לֹא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
5 of 8
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
יֻחַ֖ן
findeth no favour
H2603
יֻחַ֖ן
findeth no favour
Strong's:
H2603
Word #:
6 of 8
properly, to bend or stoop in kindness to an inferior; to favor, bestow; causatively to implore (i.e., move to favor by petition)
Historical Context
Biblical anthropology rejects the Enlightenment's optimistic view of human nature. Scripture consistently portrays natural humanity as enslaved to sin, needing supernatural deliverance.
Questions for Reflection
- What desires in your heart reveal remnants of the old nature that must be mortified?
- How does understanding the wicked's insatiable evil help you appreciate salvation's wonder?
Analysis & Commentary
The wicked possess insatiable appetites for evil—their very 'soul desireth evil.' This isn't mere occasional sin but settled disposition and constant craving. Such a person shows no compassion even to neighbors ('findeth no favour in his eyes'). The reprobate heart is so consumed with wickedness that it views everyone as potential victims or obstacles. This reveals total depravity: without God's restraining grace, humans naturally pursue evil relentlessly. The wicked person's desires are perverted, finding pleasure in what should produce revulsion. Only divine regeneration can transform such hearts, replacing the desire for evil with love for God and neighbor. Until then, the unregenerate naturally hate both God and man.