Proverbs 4:16
“For they sleep not, except they have done mischief; and their sleep is taken away, unless they cause some to fall.”
Proverbs 4:16 in 7 translations
- KJVKing James Version
- For they sleep not, except they have done mischief; and their sleep is taken away, unless they cause some to fall.
- DRADouay–Rheims
- For they sleep not except they have done evil: and their sleep is taken away unless they have made some to fall.
- ASVAmerican Standard Version
- For they sleep not, except they do evil; And their sleep is taken away, unless they cause some to fall.
- DARBYDarby
- For they sleep not except they have done mischief, and their sleep is taken away unless they have caused some to fall.
- WEBThe World English Bible
- For they don't sleep, unless they do evil. Their sleep is taken away, unless they make someone fall.
- YLTYoung's Literal Translation
- For they sleep not if they do not evil, And their sleep hath been taken violently away, If they cause not some to stumble.
- BPVBiblePics Version
- For they cannot sleep unless they have done wrong; their sleep is taken away unless they cause someone to fall.
Context: Proverbs 4
14Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men.
15Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away.
16For they sleep not, except they have done mischief; and their sleep is taken away, unless they cause some to fall.
17For they eat the bread of wickedness, and drink the wine of violence.
18But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.
About Proverbs 4: The Path of Wisdom
Solomon implores readers to choose the path of wisdom, guarding their hearts and staying true to righteous ways
Commentary
Proverbs is a book of practical wisdom, and chapter 4 is no exception. It offers a timeless message that is still relevant today: the path of wisdom is the path of life. Like a loving father, Solomon urges his son to listen carefully to his words and to pursue wisdom with all his heart. He emphasizes the importance of guarding one's heart against the influence of the wicked and to stay focused on the path of righteousness. In a world full of distractions and temptations, it's crucial to have a firm foundation of wisdom to guide us. This chapter encourages us to seek wisdom with all our hearts, trusting in God to lead us and empower us along the way.