Proverbs 21:4 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 21:4 mean?

Proverbs 21:4 says that having a proud attitude—shown by an arrogant look and a proud heart—and even the everyday actions of wicked people, are all considered sinful. The verse points out that pride and the way it shows up in a person’s life are not just bad attitudes but are counted as sin.

This proverb comes from a collection of wise sayings, traditionally attributed to King Solomon, meant to teach about right and wrong living. The verse uses strong language to show that pride is not a small flaw but something deeply wrong in God’s eyes. It also includes “the plowing of the wicked,” suggesting that even ordinary work, when done by someone with a corrupt heart, can be tainted by sin.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 21:4

• “High” (רום, rum) and “look” (עַיִן, ayin): Together, these words describe an arrogant or haughty expression—literally, “lofty eyes.” In Hebrew thought, this is a way of showing pride outwardly.
• “Proud” (רְחַב, rechav) and “heart” (לֵב, lev): This phrase means a heart that is “broad” or “wide,” often understood as being puffed up or self-important.
• “Plowing” (נִר, nir): This word usually means plowing a field, but some scholars think it can also mean “lamp” or “light.” Here, it likely refers to the basic work or activity of a wicked person, suggesting that even their everyday actions are sinful.
• “Wicked” (רָשָׁע, rasha): This word means someone who is morally wrong or guilty.
• “Sin” (חַטָּאת, chatta’th): This is the common Hebrew word for sin, meaning something that misses the mark or goes against what is right.

Why Proverbs 21:4 matters

• Proverbs 21:4 makes clear that pride is not just an attitude but a sin in itself, not just a minor character flaw.
• The verse warns that for those with a corrupt heart, even ordinary actions like working in the fields can be tainted by sin, showing that morality is about more than just outward actions.
• This proverb fits into a larger theme in Proverbs that warns against pride and highlights the importance of humility and integrity in a person’s heart and life.