Proverbs 1:19 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 1:19 mean?

Proverbs 1:19 warns that those who are greedy for gain often end up harming others, even to the point of taking away their lives. The verse points out that this pattern is typical for people driven by selfish desire for profit, showing the destructive consequences of such greed.

In this opening chapter, a father is teaching his son to avoid joining with people who plot to get rich by hurting others. Proverbs 1:19 sums up the danger of following that path, showing that greed not only traps others but also brings ruin on those who pursue it. The verse is a caution about the real cost of chasing wealth at any price.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 1:19

• "greedy" (בָּצַע, batsa‘): This word means to cut off or break off, but in this context, it refers to someone who is eager or covetous for unjust gain. It highlights that the greed described here is not just desire, but a willingness to do wrong to get what one wants.
• "gain" (בֶּצַע, betsa‘): This word specifically means profit or unjust gain, often with a negative sense of getting something at another’s expense. The verse is not warning against all profit, but against profit gained by harming others.
• "owners" (בַּעַל, ba‘al): This word means master or owner. The verse is emphasizing that the greedy person’s actions take away the life of those who rightfully possess what is being taken, stressing the personal cost to the victims.

Why Proverbs 1:19 matters

• Proverbs 1:19 clarifies that the pursuit of wealth is not condemned in itself, but the greedy, harmful methods used to get it are what lead to destruction.
• The verse ties back to the earlier warning in the chapter, showing that the consequences of joining with violent or greedy people are serious and often deadly.
• By using strong language about taking away life, the verse underscores the seriousness of greed and its potential to destroy both the victim and, ultimately, the greedy person themselves.