Proverbs 24:2

2 For their minds devise 1violence, And their lips 2talk of trouble.

Proverbs 24:2 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 24:2

For their heart studieth destruction
To others; to good men, that separate from them, and reprove them, or are in their way; or any ways hinder them in the prosecution of their wicked designs; as Haman's heart studied the destruction of the Jews: or their hearts study to draw men into their destructive methods of living, and therefore should be shunned and avoided. Moreover, their hearts study destruction to themselves; they study what they shall eat and drink, which they pursue to intemperance; and how they shall compass their lewd designs, and which issue in their ruin; destruction and misery are in all the ways they devise and walk in; and their lips talk of mischief;
which they study in their hearts against others; as are their hearts, so are their lips; out of the abundance of the wickedness of their hearts their mouths speak mischievous things; and which, though they design for others, oftentimes fall upon themselves.

Proverbs 24:2 In-Context

1 Do not be envious of evil men, Nor desire to be with them;
2 For their minds devise violence, And their lips talk of trouble.
3 By wisdom a house is built, And by understanding it is established;
4 And by knowledge the rooms are filled With all precious and pleasant riches.
5 A wise man is strong, And a man of knowledge increases power.

Cross References 2

  • 1. Isaiah 30:12; Jeremiah 22:17
  • 2. Job 15:35; Psalms 10:7; Psalms 38:12

Footnotes 1

New American Standard Bible Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, California.  All rights reserved.