Proverbs 15:6 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 15:6 mean?

Proverbs 15:6 says that a righteous person's home is filled with great treasure, while the profits or income of a wicked person bring trouble instead of blessing. The verse contrasts the outcomes of living rightly versus living wickedly, showing that true wealth is connected to character, not just possessions.

This proverb comes from the collection of wise sayings traditionally attributed to Solomon, aimed at teaching practical wisdom. The verse uses the image of a "house" to represent a person's life and family, and "treasure" to mean more than just money—possibly peace, security, or well-being. The focus is not on material riches alone, but on the kind of life that results from righteousness versus wickedness.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 15:6

• "house" (בַּיִת, bayit): This word refers to a household or family, not just a physical building. The proverb is about the whole life and environment of the righteous, not just their possessions.
• "righteous" (צַדִּיק, tsaddiq): This term means someone who lives according to what is right and just. The verse links a flourishing home to moral character.
• "treasure" (חֹסֶן, chosen): This word often means stored wealth or valuable resources. Here, it suggests abundance that comes from living rightly, which could include both material and non-material blessings.
• "revenues" (תְּבוּאָה, tevu'ah): This word means income, gain, or produce. The proverb points out that even when the wicked gain much, what they receive brings "trouble" instead of good.
• "trouble" (עָכָר, akar): This word means disturbance, trouble, or turmoil. It highlights that the gains of the wicked are tainted and do not bring lasting peace.

Why Proverbs 15:6 matters

• Proverbs 15:6 clarifies that wealth or abundance is not automatically a sign of blessing; the character of the person matters more than the amount they possess.
• The verse warns against envying the apparent success of the wicked, since their gains often come with hidden problems or unrest.
• In the broader context of Proverbs, this saying reinforces the theme that wisdom and righteousness lead to a truly good life, while wickedness, even if it seems profitable, leads to trouble.