Proverbs 24:19
Fret not thyself because of evil men, neither be thou envious at the wicked;
Original Language Analysis
אַל
H408
אַל
Strong's:
H408
Word #:
1 of 6
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
תִּתְחַ֥ר
Fret
H2734
תִּתְחַ֥ר
Fret
Strong's:
H2734
Word #:
2 of 6
to glow or grow warm; figuratively (usually) to blaze up, of anger, zeal, jealousy
בַּמְּרֵעִ֑ים
not thyself because of evil
H7489
בַּמְּרֵעִ֑ים
not thyself because of evil
Strong's:
H7489
Word #:
3 of 6
properly, to spoil (literally, by breaking to pieces); figuratively, to make (or be) good for nothing, i.e., bad (physically, socially or morally)
אַל
H408
אַל
Strong's:
H408
Word #:
4 of 6
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
Cross References
Psalms 119:115Depart from me, ye evildoers: for I will keep the commandments of my God.Psalms 37:1Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity.Proverbs 23:17Let not thine heart envy sinners: but be thou in the fear of the LORD all the day long.Proverbs 24:1Be not thou envious against evil men, neither desire to be with them.Proverbs 13:20He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.Psalms 1:1Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.Psalms 73:3For I was envious at the foolish, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.Ephesians 5:11And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.Numbers 16:26And he spake unto the congregation, saying, Depart, I pray you, from the tents of these wicked men, and touch nothing of their's, lest ye be consumed in all their sins.
Historical Context
Psalm 37 and 73 extensively develop this theme. Israel repeatedly struggled with envying prosperous pagans while experiencing hardship, needing constant reminders of eternal perspective.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you fret over the wicked's prosperity, or do you maintain eternal perspective?
- How can you cultivate trust in God's justice that eliminates anxiety over temporary inequities?
Analysis & Commentary
'Fret not thyself because of evil men'—don't be anxious or agitated over the wicked's apparent prosperity. 'Neither be thou envious at the wicked'—don't desire their success or lifestyle. This repeats themes from earlier proverbs, emphasizing their importance. Verse 20 explains why: the wicked have 'no reward' (no future, no lasting outcome), and their 'candle shall be put out' (their life and legacy will be extinguished). Anxiety over the wicked's prosperity reveals misplaced values and temporal perspective. Believers must maintain eternal viewpoint: the wicked's success is momentary; their judgment is certain. Don't envy those headed for destruction; pity them. Trust God's justice and timing rather than being disturbed by temporary inequities.