Proverbs 6:18 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 6:18 mean?

Proverbs 6:18 describes two kinds of harmful behavior: a person who plans evil ideas in their heart, and someone who is quick to rush into doing wrong. The verse points out these attitudes as examples of what God finds deeply troubling.

In Proverbs, a father is warning his son about things that are especially destructive in life and relationships. This verse is part of a list of actions and attitudes that are called out as particularly dangerous, showing how both hidden intentions and eager actions can lead to trouble.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 6:18

• "heart" (לֵב; lev): In Hebrew thought, the "heart" is not just feelings but the center of thinking and decision-making. This highlights that evil starts deep inside a person, not just in outward actions.
• "deviseth" (חָרַשׁ; charash): This word means to plot or carefully plan. The verse is not just about fleeting bad thoughts, but about someone who deliberately crafts harmful schemes.
• "wicked" (אָוֶן; aven): This word often refers to trouble, injustice, or moral disaster. The focus is on plans that bring harm or chaos, not just personal mistakes.
• "imaginations" (מַחֲשָׁבָה; machashavah): This word means thoughts, plans, or schemes. The verse warns that even our inner plans matter, not just what we do.
• "feet" (רֶגֶל; regel) and "swift" (מַהֵר; maher): The image is of someone eager and quick to get involved in wrongdoing, not hesitating or holding back.

Why Proverbs 6:18 matters

• Proverbs 6:18 makes clear that both our inner thoughts and our outward actions are important; it is not enough to simply avoid bad deeds if we are still planning harm inside.
• This verse is part of a larger section (Proverbs 6:16–19) listing things God especially hates, showing that these attitudes are not just minor flaws but serious dangers.
• The verse warns against both the slow process of plotting evil and the impulsive rush to do wrong, highlighting that harm can come from both careful planning and reckless action.