Proverbs 4:14
Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men.
Original Language Analysis
בְּאֹ֣רַח
not into the path
H734
בְּאֹ֣רַח
not into the path
Strong's:
H734
Word #:
1 of 8
a well-trodden road (literally or figuratively); also a caravan
רְ֭שָׁעִים
of the wicked
H7563
רְ֭שָׁעִים
of the wicked
Strong's:
H7563
Word #:
2 of 8
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
אַל
H408
אַל
Strong's:
H408
Word #:
3 of 8
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
וְאַל
H408
וְאַל
Strong's:
H408
Word #:
5 of 8
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
תְּ֝אַשֵּׁ֗ר
and go
H833
תְּ֝אַשֵּׁ֗ר
and go
Strong's:
H833
Word #:
6 of 8
to be straight (used in the widest sense, especially to be level, right, happy); figuratively, to go forward, be honest, prosper
Cross References
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.1 Corinthians 15:33Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.Proverbs 1:10My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not.Proverbs 1:15My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path:Proverbs 9:6Forsake the foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding.Proverbs 13:20He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.
Historical Context
Reflects covenant community ethics where separation from wickedness preserved holiness. Israel was called to be distinct from surrounding nations, avoiding their practices and associations that would corrupt covenant faithfulness.
Questions for Reflection
- What 'paths of the wicked' are you currently walking that need to be abandoned?
- How do your associations influence your conduct, and what changes might be necessary?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The prohibition: enter not the path of the wicked, go not in the way of evil men. The double negative emphasizes comprehensive avoidance - don't start down that path, and if you've started, don't continue. The imagery of paths presents life as journey requiring constant directional decisions. Association with the wicked and adoption of their ways are linked - companionship influences conduct. Therefore, avoiding evil requires avoiding evildoers.