Proverbs 18:1
What does Proverbs 18:1 mean?
A plain-English look at Proverbs 18:1 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Proverbs 18:1 means
This proverb highlights the danger of self-imposed isolation. The isolated individual is depicted as driven solely by their own desires, separate from the tempering influence of community and wisdom. This self-centered pursuit not only prevents them from hearing sound advice but also causes them to actively rebel against it, perceiving it as an infringement on their autonomy rather than a helpful guide. "Rages" suggests a strong, irrational opposition. The verse implies that true wisdom and good judgment are often found in community and are rejected by those who choose to withdraw and follow only their own inclinations, leading to poor decisions and conflict.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000He that separateth himself seeketh his own desire, And rageth against all sound wisdom.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901He that separateth himself seeketh his own desire, And rageth against all sound wisdom.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949He who keeps himself separate for his private purpose goes against all good sense.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862For <FI>an object of<Fi> desire he who is separated doth seek, With all wisdom he intermeddleth.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752He that hath a mind to depart from a friend, seeketh occasions: he shall ever be subject to reproach.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890He that separateth himself seeketh [his] pleasure, he is vehement against all sound wisdom.
Context
Proverbs 18 primarily focuses on themes of wisdom, foolishness, speech, and justice within community. This particular verse, 18:1, serves as an introductory warning against social withdrawal, setting a tone for subsequent proverbs that often emphasize the importance of community interaction and the careful use of words. It appears before several proverbs (like 18:2-4) that discuss the value of discerning speech and the folly of those who prefer their own opinions over understanding. Thus, 18:1 establishes a foundational principle regarding the peril of isolation before delving into specific examples of wise and foolish conduct in social settings.
v.1This passage
v.2A fool hath no delight in understanding, But only that his heart may reveal itself.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Proverbs 20:3
It is an honor for a man to keep aloof from strife; But every fool will be quarrelling.
- Jeremiah 15:17
I sat not in the assembly of them that make merry, nor rejoiced; I sat alone because of thy hand; for thou hast filled me with indignation.
- Proverbs 20:19
He that goeth about as a tale-bearer revealeth secrets; Therefore company not with him that openeth wide his lips.
- Mark 1:35
And in the morning, a great while before day, he rose up and went out, and departed into a desert place, and there prayed.
- 2 Corinthians 6:17
Wherefore Come ye out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, And touch no unclean thing; And I will receive you,
- Matthew 13:11
And he answered and said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.
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