Proverbs 28:1

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

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

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

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

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

Commentary

Proverbs 28:1 offers a profound contrast between the inner state and outward behavior of the wicked and the righteous. It highlights how one's moral character fundamentally shapes their sense of security and courage in the world.

Context

The Book of Proverbs is a collection of wisdom sayings, often presenting stark contrasts to illustrate the consequences of different choices and lifestyles. This particular verse fits within a larger theme of distinguishing between the path of wisdom (righteousness) and the path of folly (wickedness). It speaks to the psychological and spiritual effects of living in alignment or opposition to God's principles, emphasizing the connection between one's conscience and their demeanor.

Key Themes

  • Guilt vs. Clear Conscience: The wicked's flight, even without pursuit, stems from an internal sense of guilt, fear of exposure, or a troubled conscience. Their insecurity is self-generated. In contrast, the righteous, living with integrity, possess a clear conscience that grants them inner peace and confidence, akin to the boldness of a confident heart before God.
  • Fear vs. Courage: This proverb directly addresses the antithesis of fear and courage. The wicked are haunted by their deeds, perpetually looking over their shoulder, while the righteous stand firm. Their boldness is not recklessness but a profound trust in God and the security found in living uprightly, echoing the sentiment that "The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?"
  • Spiritual Security: True security is shown not to be external protection, but an internal state. The wicked, despite potential worldly success, lack true peace. The righteous find their strength and fearlessness in their relationship with God and their adherence to His ways, providing a foundation that worldly threats cannot easily shake.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "flee" (nûs) implies a rapid, panicked escape, suggesting an unreasoning fear or paranoia. The phrase "bold as a lion" uses the Hebrew term labî', which refers specifically to a lioness or a mature, strong lion. In ancient Near Eastern culture, the lion was a powerful symbol of strength, courage, and majesty. This imagery vividly portrays the righteous person's unwavering confidence and fearless posture, rooted in their moral uprightness and divine favor.

Practical Application

Proverbs 28:1 encourages introspection into the source of our anxieties and fears. It challenges us to consider whether our actions are driven by a troubled conscience or a confident spirit. For believers, it serves as a powerful reminder that living a life of integrity, honesty, and obedience to God's word is the ultimate source of true courage and inner peace. This verse inspires us to pursue righteousness, knowing that it builds a foundation of security that enables us to stand firm and face life's challenges with the boldness of a lion, rather than fleeing from phantoms of guilt.

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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

  • 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.
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