Proverbs 26:19

19 So [is] the man [that] deceiveth his neighbor, and saith, Am not I in sport?

Proverbs 26:19 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 26:19

So [is] the man [that] deceiveth his neighbour
By telling him a lie; or by reporting false things concerning him; or by cheating him in trade and commerce; or by taking his goods privately from him; and, when caught in either of these, and saith, Am not I in sport?
do not be angry, I designed no hurt; it is all in jest, a mere joke: but, had he not been apprehended, it would have been in earnest, as he was. This is only an excuse, and as absurd an one as if a man should set fire to his neighbour's house and barns, or throw arrows at him, or strike him with any instrument of death, as the sword and then say he was only in jest, or pretend madness.

Proverbs 26:19 In-Context

17 He that passeth by, [and] meddleth with strife [belonging] not to him, [is like] one that taketh a dog by the ears.

18 As a mad [man] who casteth fire-brands, arrows, and death,

19 So [is] the man [that] deceiveth his neighbor, and saith, Am not I in sport?

20 Where no wood is, [there] the fire goeth out: so where [there is] no tale-bearer, the strife ceaseth.

21 [As] coals [are] to burning coals, and wood to fire; so [is] a contentious man to kindle strife.