Proverbs 11:19

¶ As righteousness [tendeth] to life: so he that pursueth evil [pursueth it] to his own death.

As righteousness {H6666} tendeth to life {H2416}: so he that pursueth {H7291} evil {H7451} pursueth it to his own death {H4194}.

Genuine righteousness leads to life, but the pursuer of evil goes to his own death.

Genuine righteousness leads to life, but the pursuit of evil brings death.

He that is stedfast in righteousness shall attain unto life; And he that pursueth evil doeth it to his own death.

Commentary

Proverbs 11:19 (KJV): "As righteousness [tendeth] to life: so he that pursueth evil [pursueth it] to his own death."

Context of Proverbs 11:19

The book of Proverbs is a collection of wisdom literature, offering practical guidance for living a godly life. It frequently employs antithetical parallelism, contrasting the characteristics and destinies of the righteous and the wicked. Proverbs 11, in particular, focuses on the stark differences between these two paths, highlighting themes of integrity, justice, generosity, and their respective consequences. Verse 19 serves as a concise summary of this central theme: one's moral orientation directly determines their ultimate outcome.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Moral Causality: This verse presents a fundamental principle of divine justice: actions have direct and inevitable consequences. It's a clear cause-and-effect statement regarding human behavior and its results.
  • Righteousness Leads to Life: The term "righteousness" (Hebrew: tsedaqah) refers to moral uprightness, living in accordance with God's commands and will. "Life" (Hebrew: chay) in this context signifies not merely physical existence, but a full, blessed, and flourishing life – spiritual vitality, well-being, prosperity, and peace with God and man. It is the path to true flourishing.
  • Pursuing Evil Leads to Death: Conversely, "evil" (Hebrew: ra') encompasses wickedness, moral corruption, and actions contrary to God's law. To "pursue" (Hebrew: radaph) implies an active, deliberate, and persistent chasing after something. This pursuit of evil inevitably leads to "death," which here means spiritual decay, separation from God, ultimate destruction, and a life devoid of true blessing and purpose. It echoes the profound truth that the wages of sin is death.
  • Personal Responsibility: The verse emphasizes that individuals actively choose their path. One "tendeth" to life through righteousness, while another "pursueth" evil to their own demise. There is no neutrality; every choice moves one closer to either life or death. This is a powerful call to choose life, not death.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV uses "tendeth" from the Hebrew root `chay` (to live), which in this construction implies "leads to" or "results in." The word "pursueth" comes from the Hebrew `radaph`, meaning to chase, pursue, or even persecute. This highlights the active and intentional nature of one's devotion to either righteousness or evil, suggesting a zealous commitment that ultimately dictates their destiny.

Practical Application

Proverbs 11:19 serves as a timeless warning and encouragement. It urges us to examine our daily choices and the direction of our lives. Are we actively pursuing what is right, just, and godly? Or are we allowing ourselves to be drawn into paths of wickedness, selfishness, or compromise? This verse reminds us that true wisdom lies in understanding the inherent consequences of our moral decisions. By choosing to live righteously, we align ourselves with God's will and walk the path that truly leads to life and flourishing, both in this world and the next.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Proverbs 10:16

    ¶ The labour of the righteous [tendeth] to life: the fruit of the wicked to sin.

  • Proverbs 19:23

    ¶ The fear of the LORD [tendeth] to life: and [he that hath it] shall abide satisfied; he shall not be visited with evil.

  • Proverbs 12:28

    ¶ In the way of righteousness [is] life; and [in] the pathway [thereof there is] no death.

  • Romans 2:8

    But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath,

  • Romans 2:9

    Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile;

  • Proverbs 7:22

    He goeth after her straightway, as an ox goeth to the slaughter, or as a fool to the correction of the stocks;

  • Proverbs 7:23

    Till a dart strike through his liver; as a bird hasteth to the snare, and knoweth not that it [is] for his life.
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