Proverbs 28:25 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 28:25 mean?

Proverbs 28:25 says that someone with a proud heart causes conflict, but a person who trusts in the LORD will have what they need and thrive. The verse contrasts the trouble stirred up by pride with the security and blessing that come from relying on God.

This proverb is part of a collection of wise sayings traditionally attributed to Solomon, directed at anyone seeking to live wisely. The verse highlights how pride leads to arguments and division, while trust in God brings well-being and satisfaction. The idea of being "made fat" in this context means being blessed or prospering, not just physically but in life as a whole.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 28:25

• "proud" (רְחַב־נֶפֶשׁ, rekhav-nefesh): This phrase literally means "wide of soul" or "broad-hearted," and is often understood as someone who is greedy or self-important, not just arrogant. It points to a person who always wants more, which leads to strife.
• "strife" (מָדוֹן, madon): This word means quarrel or conflict. The verse connects pride or greed directly to stirring up arguments and division among people.
• "trust" (בָּטַח, batach): This word means to have confidence or rely on someone. Here, it emphasizes a steady, settled confidence in the LORD (יְהוָה, Yahweh), not in oneself.
• "fat" (דָּשֵׁן, dashen): In Hebrew, being "made fat" is a picture of abundance and well-being, not just physical size. It means to be richly provided for, satisfied, or flourishing.

Why Proverbs 28:25 matters

• Proverbs 28:25 helps clear up that "proud heart" is not just about arrogance, but also about greed and always wanting more, which leads to conflict.
• The verse shows that real security and satisfaction come from trusting in God, not from striving to get ahead at others' expense.
• This proverb fits into a larger pattern in Proverbs, where pride and self-reliance are contrasted with humility and dependence on God, highlighting the practical results of each path.