There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.

PROVERBS 16:25KJV
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Proverbs 16:25 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 16:25 mean?

Proverbs 16:25 warns that a person can be completely convinced they are making the right choice, but that path can actually lead to ruin or destruction. The verse highlights the danger of trusting only one’s own judgment without considering that it might be flawed.

This proverb is part of a collection of wise sayings in the book of Proverbs, traditionally attributed to Solomon, addressed to anyone seeking wisdom for daily life. The verse points out that what seems obviously correct to a person ("seemeth right") may not lead to a good outcome, stressing the importance of humility and caution when making decisions.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 16:25

  • דֶּרֶךְ (derekh, "way"): This word often refers to a path, journey, or manner of life. In Proverbs 16:25, it emphasizes not just a literal road but a chosen way of living or making decisions.
  • יָשָׁר (yashar, "right"): This word means straight, upright, or correct. The verse uses it to show that the way appears morally or practically correct to the person, not just appealing or convenient.
  • קֵץ (qets, "end"): This word means the final outcome or result. The proverb draws attention to the ultimate consequences of a path, not just how it looks at the start.
  • מָוֶת (mavet, "death"): This word means death or destruction. The verse uses strong language to underline how serious the consequences can be when someone is mistaken about what is right.

Why Proverbs 16:25 matters

  • Proverbs 16:25 cautions against overconfidence in personal judgment, reminding readers that sincerity or good intentions do not guarantee a good outcome.
  • The verse encourages reflection and seeking wisdom beyond one’s own perspective, which is a major theme throughout Proverbs.
  • By repeating a similar warning found earlier in Proverbs (14:12), the text signals that this is a common and serious human problem, worth extra attention.

Where else these words appear

“end” Hebrew H319 · used in 60 verses

  • Genesis 49:1 And Jacob called unto his sons, and said, Gather yourselves together, that I may tell you that which shall befall you in the last days.
  • Proverbs 14:12 There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.
  • Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.

“right” Hebrew H3477 · used in 119 verses

  • Exodus 15:26 And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the LORD that healeth thee.
  • 2 Chronicles 28:1 Ahaz was twenty years old when he began to reign, and he reigned sixteen years in Jerusalem: but he did not that which was right in the sight of the LORD, like David his father:
  • Psalms 140:13 Surely the righteous shall give thanks unto thy name: the upright shall dwell in thy presence.

“is” Hebrew H3426 · used in 129 verses

  • Genesis 18:24 Peradventure there be fifty righteous within the city: wilt thou also destroy and not spare the place for the fifty righteous that are therein?
  • 1 Samuel 21:8 And David said unto Ahimelech, And is there not here under thine hand spear or sword? for I have neither brought my sword nor my weapons with me, because the king's business required haste.
  • Psalms 73:11 And they say, How doth God know? and is there knowledge in the most High?