Proverbs 17:19

19 He who loves transgression loves strife; he who builds his gate high invites destruction.

Proverbs 17:19 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 17:19

He loveth transgression that loveth strife
For strife is transgression, when it flows from a malignant spirit, is with bad views, about things to no profit, and for contention's sake; otherwise to contend earnestly for the truth; to strive together for the faith of the Gospel, for matters of moment and importance, and not mere words; to strive lawfully in a cause that is just, and for truth and justice, is commendable and praiseworthy; [and] he that exalteth his gate seeketh destruction;
that opens the door of his lips, and speaks proudly, as Jarchi and Aben Ezra interpret it; who compare it with ( Micah 7:5 ) ; who set their mouths against heaven, and God in it; and whose tongue walks through the earth, and spares none there, ( Psalms 73:8 Psalms 73:9 ) ; as antichrist, who opens his mouth in blasphemy against God and his tabernacle, and exalts himself above all that is called God; and such, sooner or later, bring destruction on themselves, and find it as surely as if they sought for it. Or this may be understood of proud ambitious persons, that build houses more magnificent than their substance will allow of, the gate being put for the whole; by which means they bring themselves to ruin. The Septuagint, Vulgate Latin, and Arabic versions, have it in ( Proverbs 17:16 ) , "he that buildeth his house high"; or who behaves proudly.

Proverbs 17:19 In-Context

17 A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

18 A man lacking judgment strikes hands in pledge and puts up security for his neighbor.

19 He who loves transgression loves strife; he who builds his gate high invites destruction.

20 The one with a perverse heart finds no good, and he whose tongue is deceitful falls into trouble.

21 A man fathers a fool to his own grief; the father of a fool has no joy.