Proverbs 28:25
What does Proverbs 28:25 mean?
A plain-English look at Proverbs 28:25 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Proverbs 28:25 means
This proverb contrasts two types of individuals: the one driven by greed and the one who trusts in the Lord. A "greedy spirit" (or "haughty heart" in some translations) is characterized by a covetous desire for more, often at the expense of others. Such an attitude inevitably leads to "strife," meaning contention, quarrels, and conflict within relationships and communities. This imagery highlights how selfish ambition actively disrupts peace. Conversely, the one who "trusts in Yahweh" demonstrates a reliance on God’s provision and sovereignty, rather than on their own accumulation of wealth or power. This trust brings "prosperity," which in a biblical sense encompasses not only material well-being but also peace, security, and spiritual flourishing.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000He that is of a greedy spirit stirreth up strife; But he that putteth his trust in Jehovah shall be made fat.
KJV
King James Version · 1611He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife: but he that putteth his trust in the Lord shall be made fat.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901He that is of a greedy spirit stirreth up strife; But he that putteth his trust in Jehovah shall be made fat.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949He who is ever desiring profit is a cause of fighting; but he who puts his faith in the Lord will be made fat.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862Whoso is proud in soul stirreth up contention, And whoso is trusting on Jehovah is made fat.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752He that boasteth and puffeth up himself, stirreth up quarrels: but he that trusteth in the Lord, shall be healed.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890He that is puffed up in soul exciteth contention; but he that relieth upon Jehovah shall be made fat.
Context
Proverbs 28, as a whole, deals with the contrast between the righteous and the wicked, exploring various aspects of justice, governance, and personal conduct. This particular verse fits squarely within a section that warns against covetousness and praises integrity. Immediately before this verse, there are warnings against robbery and a call to generosity, while subsequent verses continue to extol justice and wisdom. The theme of contrasting outcomes based on one’s character and trust in God is prevalent throughout the chapter. The speaker, likely Solomon, is offering timeless wisdom to his audience on how to live a life that honors God and enjoys true well-being.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Proverbs 21:24
The proud and haughty man, scoffer is his name; He worketh in the arrogance of pride.
- Proverbs 11:25
The liberal soul shall be made fat; And he that watereth shall be watered also himself.
- Proverbs 29:22
An angry man stirreth up strife, And a wrathful man aboundeth in transgression.
- Proverbs 29:25
The fear of man bringeth a snare; But whoso putteth his trust in Jehovah shall be safe.
- Proverbs 13:10
By pride cometh only contention; But with the well-advised is wisdom.
- Jeremiah 17:7
Blessed is the man that trusteth in Jehovah, and whose trust Jehovah is.
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