Proverbs 10:2 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 10:2 mean?

Proverbs 10:2 teaches that wealth gained through wrongdoing does not bring real benefit, while living rightly can rescue a person from death. The verse draws a sharp contrast between dishonest gain and the lasting safety that comes from righteousness.

This proverb is part of a collection of wise sayings traditionally attributed to Solomon, offering practical guidance for daily life. The focus is on the outcome of two ways of living: one that seeks quick profit through unjust means, and one that follows a just and upright path. The verse warns that ill-gotten gains are ultimately useless, but a life marked by righteousness can have life-saving results.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 10:2

• "Treasures" (אוֹצָר, 'otsar) means stored wealth or valuables. The word highlights not just money, but anything people might store up as a sign of success.
• "Wickedness" (רֶשַׁע, resha‘) refers to wrongdoing or evil actions. The verse is not talking about all treasure, but specifically that which comes from unjust behavior.
• "Profit" (יוֹעִיל, yo‘il) means to be of use or benefit. The verse stresses that wickedly gained wealth is ultimately useless.
• "Righteousness" (צְדָקָה, tsedaqah) means doing what is right or just. In this context, it points to a way of living that is fair, honest, and faithful.
• "Delivereth" (נָצַל, natsal) means to rescue or save. The word suggests an active rescue, not just a passive escape.
• "Death" (מָוֶת, mavet) means physical death, but in wisdom literature, it can also suggest ruin or disaster.

Why Proverbs 10:2 matters

• Proverbs 10:2 makes clear that not all wealth is equal—how it is gained matters as much as having it, correcting the idea that success is measured only by possessions.
• The verse highlights a core theme in Proverbs: living rightly brings real security, while shortcuts and wrongdoing offer only empty promises.
• This proverb sets the tone for the surrounding verses, which often compare the outcomes of wise and foolish, righteous and wicked choices.