Proverbs 4:17
“For they eat the bread of wickedness, and drink the wine of violence.”
Proverbs 4:17 in 7 translations
- KJVKing James Version
- For they eat the bread of wickedness, and drink the wine of violence.
- DRADouay–Rheims
- They eat the bread of wickedness, and drink the wine of iniquity.
- ASVAmerican Standard Version
- For they eat the bread of wickedness, And drink the wine of violence.
- DARBYDarby
- For they eat the bread of wickedness, and drink the wine of violence.
- WEBThe World English Bible
- For they eat the bread of wickedness, and drink the wine of violence.
- YLTYoung's Literal Translation
- For they have eaten bread of wickedness, And wine of violence they drink.
- BPVBiblePics Version
- They feast on wickedness and drink the wine of violence.
Context: Proverbs 4
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.
19The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble.
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.