Question 1

What does Proverbs 13:21 mean?

Accepted Answer

Proverbs 13:21 says that trouble and harm chase after those who do wrong, but those who live rightly will eventually receive good in return. The verse draws a clear line between the outcomes for people who act wickedly and those who act righteously. This proverb comes from a collection of wise sayings traditionally attributed to Solomon, directed to anyone seeking wisdom for daily life. The verse uses everyday language to show that actions have consequences: wrongdoing tends to bring negative results, while right living leads to positive outcomes, even if not immediately.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 13:21

Accepted Answer

"Evil" (רַע, raʿ): This word often means not just moral evil, but also harm, trouble, or misfortune. Here, it suggests that bad consequences actively pursue those who do wrong. "Pursueth" (רָדַף, radaf): This word means to chase or hunt down. The image is of trouble not just happening by chance, but actually chasing after sinners. "Repayed" (שָׁלַם, shalam): This word means to make whole, repay, or restore. The idea is that good is not just given, but paid back or returned to the righteous, as if settling a debt.

Question 3

Why Proverbs 13:21 matters

Accepted Answer

Proverbs 13:21 clarifies that the results of our actions are not random; there is a built-in connection between how we live and what we experience. The verse emphasizes that good outcomes for the righteous are not always instant, but they are certain, using the idea of repayment to stress fairness and certainty. This proverb fits into a larger biblical theme that wisdom and righteousness lead to lasting benefit, while wrongdoing brings its own trouble, reinforcing the practical value of wise living.

Proverbs 13:21 (KJV)