Proverbs 24:1-2·~1 min
Saying 20
The son is told not to envy wicked men or desire their company, because their hearts plan violence and their lips prepare trouble. Wisdom begins here by refusing admiration for people whose apparent advantages are built on harm.
D1o not envy wicked men 2for their hearts devise violence,
Section summaryThe opening saying forbids envy of wicked men because their inner life is set on violence and harmful speech. What looks powerful from the outside is exposed as inwardly bent toward destruction.
Role in the chapterThis section turns the reader's gaze away from the apparent success of the wicked by exposing the corrupt heart beneath it.