Proverbs 24:2

2 for their heart studieth destruction, and their lips talk of mischief.

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 Be not thou envious of evil men, neither desire to be with them;
2 for their heart studieth destruction, and their lips talk of mischief.
3 Through wisdom is a house built, and by understanding it is established;
4 and by knowledge are the chambers filled with all precious and pleasant substance.
5 A wise man is strong, and a man of knowledge increaseth strength.
The Darby Translation is in the public domain.