Proverbs 21:7

Context

Proverbs 21:7 is part of a collection of wisdom sayings in the book of Proverbs, which offers practical guidance for living a righteous and discerning life. This particular verse uses a common Proverbial technique of contrasting the actions and consequences of the wicked with principles of justice. It highlights the inherent self-destructive nature of evil and injustice, emphasizing that one's actions inevitably lead to their own destiny.

Key Themes

• Divine Justice and Consequences: The verse clearly states that the actions of the wicked, specifically their "robbery" or violent oppression, will ultimately lead to their own downfall. This reflects the biblical principle that sin carries its own destructive consequences, a concept also seen in Galatians 6:7, "whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap."
• Refusal to Do Justice: The core reason for the wicked's destruction is their "refusal to do judgment." This isn't merely a passive omission but an active rejection of righteousness, fairness, and moral order. It speaks to a fundamental character flaw—a deliberate turning away from what is right.
• The Self-Destructive Nature of Wickedness: The "robbery" (violent injustice) of the wicked is not just a sin against others, but it also becomes the instrument of their own destruction. Their chosen path of oppression becomes a snare for themselves.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "The robbery of the wicked" translates the Hebrew word chamas (חָמָס), which often means more than simple theft. It refers to violence, injustice, cruelty, or oppressive wrongdoing. So, it's not just taking property, but engaging in violent or wrongful acts against others. The phrase "shall destroy them" (יְגוֹרֶם - *yegoreh*) implies that their own violent deeds will sweep them away or terrify them, leading to their undoing.

The term "judgment" (מִשְׁפָּט - *mishpat*) in "because they refuse to do judgment" is crucial. Mishpat refers to justice, righteousness, equity, and what is right or fitting. It encompasses both legal justice and moral rectitude. Therefore, the wicked are destroyed because they actively reject and refuse to uphold fairness, righteousness, and the moral law of God.

Practical Application

This proverb serves as a powerful warning and an affirmation of God's moral order:

• Accountability for Actions: It reminds us that there are inherent consequences for unrighteous actions, especially those involving violence and injustice. While immediate retribution may not always be visible, the long-term trajectory of wickedness leads to ruin.
• The Importance of Justice: The verse underscores the divine expectation that humanity should "do judgment" – that is, pursue and uphold justice and righteousness. As Proverbs 21:3 states, "To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice."
• A Call to Self-Examination: It prompts us to consider our own actions and motivations. Are we pursuing justice and righteousness, or are we, in any way, refusing to do what is right, potentially setting ourselves on a destructive path?
• Hope for the Oppressed: For those who suffer under injustice, this verse offers a measure of hope, affirming that the oppressor's actions will ultimately turn back on them.