Proverbs 28:1

KJV

¶ The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion.

KJV (with Strong's)

The wicked {H7563} flee {H5127} when no man pursueth {H7291}: but the righteous {H6662} are bold {H982} as a lion {H3715}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The wicked flee when no one pursues them; but the righteous, like lions, feel sure of themselves.

Berean Standard Bible

The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion.

American Standard Version

The wicked flee when no man pursueth; But the righteous are bold as a lion.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 28:1 masterfully contrasts the internal states and outward behaviors of the wicked and the righteous, revealing how one's moral character fundamentally shapes their experience of security and fear. It asserts that a conscience burdened by unrighteousness leads to an irrational and self-generated sense of dread, causing the wicked to flee even when no external threat exists. Conversely, a life lived in integrity and alignment with God's truth cultivates an unwavering confidence and courage, enabling the righteous to stand firm and fearless, embodying the strength and majesty of a lion. This proverb powerfully underscores the profound connection between spiritual health, moral uprightness, and genuine inner peace.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 28 is situated within the "Proverbs of Solomon" (Proverbs 25-29), a distinct collection often characterized by its prevalent use of antithetical parallelism. This literary device, which presents contrasting ideas in parallel lines, is employed to highlight moral distinctions and their inherent consequences. Proverbs 28, in particular, delves into themes of justice, governance, wealth, poverty, righteousness, and wickedness, frequently juxtaposing the outcomes and characteristics of those who walk in wisdom with those who choose folly. Proverbs 28:1 serves as a foundational statement, immediately establishing the core psychological and behavioral dichotomy between the wicked and the righteous, setting the thematic stage for the subsequent proverbs within the chapter that further elaborate on these contrasting paths and their respective destinies. It encapsulates the book's overarching message: wisdom (righteousness) leads to life and security, while folly (wickedness) leads to fear and ruin.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the concepts of "wicked" (`râshâʻ`) and "righteous" (`tsaddîyq`) were deeply interwoven with one's covenant relationship with Yahweh and adherence to the Mosaic Law. A "righteous" person was not merely ethically upright but one who lived in right standing with God, demonstrating integrity, justice, and faithfulness within the community. Conversely, a "wicked" person was one who actively disregarded God's commands, often engaging in oppression, deceit, or idolatry, thereby disrupting communal harmony and incurring divine displeasure. The legal and social structures of the time, including the understanding of divine judgment, meant that a wicked individual might perpetually harbor a fear of exposure, human retribution, or divine consequence, even in the absence of an immediate pursuer. The imagery of the lion (`kᵉphîyr`) held profound cultural significance throughout the ancient Near East, symbolizing immense strength, majesty, courage, and often associated with royalty or divine power. By likening the righteous to a lion, the proverb taps into a universally understood symbol of unshakeable confidence and authority, amplifying the stark contrast with the internal disquiet of the wicked.
* **Key Themes:** This proverb powerfully encapsulates several pervasive themes found throughout the Book of Proverbs and the broader Old Testament. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Internal vs. External Security**. The wicked's flight is not instigated by an external threat but by an internal, self-generated fear, demonstrating that true security is rooted in one's moral and spiritual state, rather than external circumstances. This stands in stark contrast to the righteous, whose boldness emanates from an inner peace and integrity. Secondly, the verse speaks to the theme of **Divine Justice and Inherent Consequences**, implying that even without immediate human intervention, the wicked carry the burden of their deeds, leading to a restless spirit and a life devoid of peace, while the righteous experience the peace and confidence that flow from living in alignment with God's will. This resonates with the promise that "the path of the righteous is like the morning sun, shining ever brighter till the full light of day" in [Proverbs 4:18](/proverbs/4-18 "Proverbs 4:18 - The Path of the Righteous"). Finally, the proverb underscores the **Nature of True Courage**, which is not an absence of fear, but a profound confidence rooted in one's moral standing and trust in God, echoing the sentiment found in [Psalm 27:1](/psalms/27-1 "Psalm 27:1 - The Lord is My Light and My Salvation") that "The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?"

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Wicked (Hebrew, _râshâʻ'_):** From the root `râshâʻ`, meaning "to be wrong" or "to be guilty," this term denotes someone who is morally wrong, ungodly, or actively bad. It describes a person who deviates from God's law and righteous standards, often characterized by injustice, deceit, and a disregard for divine authority. Their inner state is one of guilt, alienation from God, and a troubled conscience.
* **Flee (Hebrew, _nûwç'_):** A primitive root meaning "to flit," "vanish away," or "escape." In this context, it suggests a rapid, panicked, and often irrational flight, indicative of an internal state of fear, paranoia, or a deeply troubled conscience. The absence of an external pursuer emphasizes that the impetus for flight originates from within the wicked person themselves, driven by their own guilt or the fear of inevitable consequences.
* **Righteous (Hebrew, _tsaddîyq'_):** Derived from the root `tsâdaq`, meaning "to be just" or "to be right," this term describes someone who is just, lawful, and morally upright. It signifies a person who lives in accordance with God's revealed will, characterized by integrity, fairness, and a right relationship with both God and humanity. Their inner state is one of peace, security, and a clear conscience.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The wicked flee when no man pursueth":** This clause vividly portrays the psychological torment and spiritual instability of the wicked. Their "flight" is not a physical escape from an actual, visible threat, but rather an internal compulsion stemming from a troubled conscience, the weight of their guilt, or a pervasive sense of insecurity. They are perpetually haunted by their own misdeeds, fearing exposure, judgment, or retribution, even in the absence of any discernible adversary. This highlights the self-inflicted nature of their anxiety and the inherent instability that accompanies a life lived contrary to God's ways.
* **"but the righteous are bold as a lion":** In stark and powerful contrast, the righteous possess an unwavering confidence and profound courage. Their "boldness" is rooted in their integrity, a clear conscience before God and humanity, and their deep trust in the Lord. Like a lion, a creature universally recognized for its strength, fearlessness, and majesty, the righteous stand firm, unperturbed by potential threats or the anxieties that plague the wicked. Their security is internal, a gift of their upright living and divine favor, enabling them to face life's challenges with composure, strength, and an unshakeable peace.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 28:1 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its profound message. **Antithetical Parallelism** is the most prominent feature, setting up a direct and striking contrast between the behavior and inner state of the wicked and the righteous. This juxtaposition serves to highlight the divergent outcomes and inherent consequences of choosing either a life of unrighteousness or a life of integrity. The phrase "bold as a lion" is a clear and effective **Simile**, comparing the righteous person's courage and confidence to the universally recognized attributes of a lion—strength, fearlessness, and majesty. This comparison not only illustrates the quality of their boldness but also elevates the perceived status and inner peace of the righteous. Furthermore, there is an element of **Irony** in the first clause: the wicked, despite potentially holding positions of power or wealth, are depicted as fleeing from an imagined threat, demonstrating a profound lack of true security. This underscores the spiritual and psychological realities that transcend outward appearances, revealing that genuine peace and security are not found in external circumstances but in one's moral and spiritual standing.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 28:1 profoundly articulates the theological truth that one's moral standing before God directly impacts their inner peace and outward demeanor. It teaches that sin, even when unexposed by human eyes, creates an internal disquiet and a pervasive sense of insecurity, leading to a life characterized by fear and flight. Conversely, righteousness, defined by a life lived in obedience and trust towards God, cultivates a deep-seated confidence and courage, enabling one to face life's challenges with stability and boldness. This principle resonates throughout Scripture, affirming that true security is not found in external circumstances or human power, but in a right relationship with the sovereign God and a clear conscience that flows from it. The proverb implicitly points to the divine order where integrity brings blessing and wickedness brings internal turmoil, reflecting God's just character.

* [Psalm 32:10](/psalms/32-10 "Psalm 32:10 - Many are the woes of the wicked, but the Lord's unfailing love surrounds the one who trusts in him.")
* [Isaiah 48:22](/isaiah/48-22 "Isaiah 48:22 - There is no peace for the wicked, says the Lord.")
* [Hebrews 4:16](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 28:1 serves as a profound mirror for self-examination, prompting us to consider the true source of our anxieties and courage. If we find ourselves perpetually restless, fearful, or constantly looking over our shoulder, this proverb challenges us to introspect on our moral integrity and our relationship with God. Are there unconfessed sins, unresolved conflicts, or areas of disobedience that are eroding our inner peace and generating a sense of unease? For the believer, this verse is a powerful encouragement to pursue righteousness not out of legalism, but as the pathway to genuine freedom, confidence, and a clear conscience. Living a life marked by honesty, integrity, and trust in God allows us to stand firm, unburdened by guilt or the fear of exposure, facing life's uncertainties with the unwavering boldness that only divine favor can bestow. It reminds us that true security is an internal state, cultivated by walking in God's ways, rather than an external condition dependent on fleeting circumstances or human approval.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life do I experience irrational fear or a sense of needing to "flee," even when there's no apparent threat? What might this reveal about my conscience or my walk with God?**
* **How does my daily conduct reflect either the "fleeing" of the wicked or the "boldness" of the righteous? What practical steps can I take to cultivate a clearer conscience and greater confidence in God?**
* **Beyond external circumstances, what does this proverb teach me about the true nature of security and courage? How can I rely more on God for my sense of security rather than worldly assurances?**
* **How does understanding the contrast between the wicked and the righteous in this verse motivate me to pursue a deeper relationship with God and a life of integrity?**

### FAQ
**Does "flee when no man pursueth" imply that the wicked are always paranoid or mentally unstable?**

Answer: While the verse highlights a psychological state, it's not necessarily a clinical diagnosis of paranoia or mental instability in the modern sense. Rather, it speaks to the spiritual and moral consequences of wickedness. The "fleeing" stems from a troubled conscience, a deep-seated guilt, or an inherent insecurity that arises from living contrary to divine order. The wicked may fear exposure, divine judgment, or the natural consequences of their actions, even if no human adversary is immediately present. This internal unrest is a spiritual reality, not necessarily a mental illness, although spiritual distress can certainly manifest in psychological ways. It underscores that true peace is elusive for those who reject God's ways, as [Isaiah 57:21](/isaiah/57-21 "Isaiah 57:21 - There is no peace, says my God, for the wicked.") declares.

**How can a person be "bold as a lion" in a humble and godly way, without being arrogant?**

Answer: The "boldness" described for the righteous is not arrogance, self-sufficiency, or a lack of humility. Instead, it is a confident assurance and inner strength that comes from a clear conscience and a deep trust in God. It is the boldness of faith, knowing one walks in God's favor and protection. This kind of boldness enables the righteous to stand firm against injustice, speak truth, and face adversity without cowering, not because they rely on their own strength, but because they rely on the Lord. It is a spiritual courage, much like the apostles who, filled with the Holy Spirit, spoke God's word with great boldness, as seen in [Acts 4:31](/acts/4-31 "Acts 4:31 - And when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness."). This boldness is rooted in humility before God and a confident reliance on His power and presence.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 28:1 finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the quintessential "Righteous One," embodying perfect integrity, unwavering truth, and unparalleled boldness. While the wicked flee from an unseen pursuer, Christ, though utterly innocent, willingly faced the full pursuit of divine justice on the cross, becoming sin for us so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.")). His "boldness as a lion" is seen not in self-preservation, but in His resolute determination to fulfill the Father's will, even unto death ([Luke 9:51](/luke/9-51 "Luke 9:51 - As the time approached for him to be taken up to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem.")). Through His atoning work, believers are no longer defined by their former wickedness, which leads to fear and flight, but are clothed in His perfect righteousness. This imputed righteousness, coupled with the indwelling Holy Spirit, grants us a clear conscience and empowers us to live with a new, Christ-like boldness. We are enabled to approach God's throne of grace with confidence ([Hebrews 4:16](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.")) and to stand firm against the schemes of the enemy, knowing that "if God is for us, who can be against us?" ([Romans 8:31](/romans/8-31 "Romans 8:31 - If God is for us, who can be against us?")). In Christ, the fear that plagues the wicked is overcome by the perfect love that casts out fear ([1 John 4:18](/1_john/4-18 "1 John 4:18 - There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.")), allowing us to walk in the boldness of His finished work and the security of His eternal kingdom.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Deuteronomy 28:7

The LORD shall cause thine enemies that rise up against thee to be smitten before thy face: they shall come out against thee one way, and flee before thee seven ways.

Psalms 53:5

There were they in great fear, [where] no fear was: for God hath scattered the bones of him that encampeth [against] thee: thou hast put [them] to shame, because God hath despised them.

Isaiah 26:3

Thou wilt keep [him] in perfect peace, [whose] mind [is] stayed [on thee]: because he trusteth in thee.

Isaiah 26:4

Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH [is] everlasting strength:

Psalms 27:1

¶ [A Psalm] of David. The LORD [is] my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD [is] the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

Psalms 27:2

When the wicked, [even] mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled and fell.

Psalms 112:7

He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed, trusting in the LORD.