Proverbs 4:14 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 4:14 mean?

Proverbs 4:14 warns the reader not to start down the same road as people who do wrong or live in ways that are harmful and unjust. The verse urges a clear separation from the choices and habits of those described as "wicked" or "evil men."

In this part of Proverbs, a father is speaking to his son, passing on wisdom about how to live well. The advice comes in the form of a warning, encouraging the listener to avoid even beginning to follow the example or lifestyle of people who act in harmful or morally wrong ways. The focus is on making a conscious decision not to join in with those who do wrong.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 4:14

• "Enter" (בּוֹא, bo) is often used for physically going into a place, but here it suggests not even starting down a certain kind of life or behavior.
• "Path" (אֹרַח, orach) points to a way of living or a pattern of choices, not just a literal road.
• "Wicked" (רָשָׁע, rasha) refers to people who are known for doing wrong or acting unjustly, not just those who make occasional mistakes.
• "Go" (אָשַׁר, ashar) means to walk or travel, but in Proverbs it often means to adopt a way of life.
• "Way" (דֶּרֶךְ, derek) is another word for a road or path, but it also means a manner of living or a set of habits.
• "Evil" (רַע, ra) describes actions or people that are harmful, destructive, or morally bad.

Why Proverbs 4:14 matters

• Proverbs 4:14 makes it clear that wisdom is not just about what you do, but also about what you avoid—actively choosing not to imitate harmful behavior.
• The verse emphasizes the importance of early decisions; it warns against even beginning to follow a path that leads to trouble, showing that small choices matter.
• This advice fits into the larger theme of Proverbs 4, where the father urges his son to seek wisdom and avoid the pitfalls that come from following the wrong crowd.