Proverbs 13:19

19 A longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul, but fools detest turning from evil.

Proverbs 13:19 in Other Translations

KJV
19 The desire accomplished is sweet to the soul: but it is abomination to fools to depart from evil.
ESV
19 A desire fulfilled is sweet to the soul, but to turn away from evil is an abomination to fools.
NLT
19 It is pleasant to see dreams come true, but fools refuse to turn from evil to attain them.
MSG
19 Souls who follow their hearts thrive; fools bent on evil despise matters of soul.
CSB
19 Desire fulfilled is sweet to the taste, but fools hate to turn from evil.

Proverbs 13:19 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 13:19

The desire accomplished is sweet to the soul
Whether the desire be after riches and honour, after wisdom and knowledge; or after the best things, the knowledge of God, and communion with him; an interest in Christ, and the blessings of his grace, as pardon, righteousness and a right and title to eternal glory and happiness, and the enjoyment of that: and how sweet are these things the soul desires, when they are possessed! see ( Proverbs 13:12 ) ; such are "the desires of the godly", as the Septuagint render the word; but [it is] abomination to fools to depart from evil;
they cannot bear the thoughts of parting with their lusts; they are so delightful to them, not knowing anything of the sweetness of the things before mentioned; and which they can never enjoy without departing from sin, to which they are exceedingly averse.

Proverbs 13:19 In-Context

17 A wicked messenger falls into trouble, but a trustworthy envoy brings healing.
18 Whoever disregards discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever heeds correction is honored.
19 A longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul, but fools detest turning from evil.
20 Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.
21 Trouble pursues the sinner, but the righteous are rewarded with good things.

Cross References 1

  • 1. S Proverbs 10:11
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