Proverbs 11:10 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 11:10 mean?

Proverbs 11:10 says that when good things happen to people who do what is right, the whole city celebrates, but when those who do evil are gone, people shout for joy. The verse highlights how the character of people in power or influence affects the mood and well-being of the wider community.

Proverbs is a collection of wise sayings, mostly attributed to Solomon, meant to teach practical wisdom. Here, the writer points out that the actions and fate of the "righteous" and the "wicked" have a public impact. The verse assumes a setting where the community is closely affected by its leaders and citizens, and their moral character shapes the happiness or relief of everyone around them.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 11:10

• "well" (טוֹבָה, tovah): This word means "goodness" or "well-being." The verse is not just about personal success, but a flourishing that benefits others and brings visible joy to the community.
• "righteous" (צַדִּיק, tsaddiq): This word refers to people who live justly and uprightly. Their positive influence is so strong that their prosperity brings joy to all.
• "city" (קִרְיָה, qiryah): The term here points to the whole community, not just a few individuals, showing that the impact of righteousness or wickedness is widespread.
• "rejoiceth" (עָלַץ, alatz): This verb means to exult or rejoice greatly, suggesting a deep, shared happiness, not just a quiet satisfaction.
• "wicked" (רָשָׁע, rasha): This word describes those who act unjustly or harmfully. Their downfall is met with open celebration, showing the relief people feel when harmful influences are removed.
• "perish" (אָבַד, avad): This word means to be destroyed or to disappear, emphasizing the complete removal of the wicked from the community.
• "shouting" (רִנָּה, rinah): This word means a ringing cry or joyful shout, highlighting the public and enthusiastic response when evil is gone.

Why Proverbs 11:10 matters

• Proverbs 11:10 clarifies that the moral quality of individuals has a ripple effect on the entire community, not just on themselves or their families.
• The verse emphasizes that people naturally respond with joy when justice and goodness prevail, and with relief when harmful influences are removed.
• This proverb fits into a larger biblical theme that righteousness benefits not only the individual but also society as a whole, while wickedness brings trouble for everyone.