Proverbs 4:19

19 The 1way of the wicked is like darkness; They do not know over what they 2stumble.

Proverbs 4:19 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 4:19

The way of the wicked [is] as darkness
They are in the darkness of sin, ignorance, error, and unbelief; their works are works of darkness; the way in which they are leads to eternal darkness, ruin, and misery, and so must be most uncomfortable and dangerous; they know not at what they stumble;
they stumble at the word, which they are ignorant of, and at Christ, whom they have no knowledge of; and through the temptations of Satan and snares of the world, which they are not aware of, nor upon their guard against.

Proverbs 4:19 In-Context

17 For they eat the bread of wickedness And drink the wine of violence.
18 But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, That shines brighter and brighter until the full day.
19 The way of the wicked is like darkness; They do not know over what they stumble.
20 My son, give attention to my words; Incline your ear to my sayings.
21 Do not let them depart from your sight; Keep them in the midst of your heart.

Cross References 2

  • 1. Job 18:5, 6; Proverbs 2:13; Isaiah 59:9, 10; Jeremiah 23:12; John 12:35
  • 2. John 11:10

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.