For their heart studieth destruction, and their lips talk of mischief.

PROVERBS 24:2KJV
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Proverbs 24:2 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 24:2 mean?

Proverbs 24:2 warns that certain people are always thinking about causing harm and speak words that lead to trouble. The verse highlights that their intentions and speech are both focused on negative and destructive purposes.

In the book of Proverbs, these words are part of a warning from a wise teacher to a listener—often imagined as a parent to a child or a mentor to a student—about the dangers of associating with people who plot evil. The verse follows an earlier warning not to envy or desire the company of those who do wrong, making clear that their hearts and words are set on causing damage and stirring up problems.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 24:2

  • "heart" (לֵב, lev, H3820): This word refers to the inner self or mind, not just emotions. Here, it means their deepest thoughts are focused on harmful plans.
  • "studieth" (הָגָה, hagah, H1897): This word often means to meditate or ponder deeply. The verse suggests these people are not just casually thinking of evil but are actively planning and dwelling on it.
  • "destruction" (שֹׁד, shod, H7701): This word means violence, ruin, or devastation. The focus is on causing real harm, not just mischief.
  • "talk" (דָּבַר, dabar, H1696): This word means to speak or declare, often with intent. Their speech is not accidental; it is purposeful and aimed at causing trouble.
  • "mischief" (עָמָל, amal, H5999): This word means trouble, hardship, or wickedness. It highlights that their words are meant to bring about difficulty or harm for others.

Why Proverbs 24:2 matters

  • Proverbs 24:2 clarifies that the danger from these people is not just in their actions but also in their intentions and words, which can influence others.
  • The verse emphasizes the seriousness of associating with those who plan evil, showing that their harmful mindset is deeply rooted and not just a passing thought.
  • This verse connects to the larger theme in Proverbs of choosing companions wisely, warning that being around people with destructive intentions can lead to trouble.

Where else these words appear

“studieth” Hebrew H1897 · used in 24 verses

  • Joshua 1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.
  • Psalms 63:6 When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches.
  • Isaiah 16:7 Therefore shall Moab howl for Moab, every one shall howl: for the foundations of Kirhareseth shall ye mourn; surely they are stricken.

“destruction” Hebrew H7701 · used in 24 verses

  • Job 5:21 Thou shalt be hid from the scourge of the tongue: neither shalt thou be afraid of destruction when it cometh.
  • Isaiah 51:19 These two things are come unto thee; who shall be sorry for thee? desolation, and destruction, and the famine, and the sword: by whom shall I comfort thee?
  • Hosea 9:6 For, lo, they are gone because of destruction: Egypt shall gather them up, Memphis shall bury them: the pleasant places for their silver, nettles shall possess them: thorns shall be in their tabernacles.

“mischief” Hebrew H5999 · used in 54 verses

  • Genesis 41:51 And Joseph called the name of the firstborn Manasseh: For God, said he, hath made me forget all my toil, and all my father's house.
  • Psalms 55:10 Day and night they go about it upon the walls thereof: mischief also and sorrow are in the midst of it.
  • Ecclesiastes 3:13 And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God.