Devine Scripture

Proverbs 3:29

What does Proverbs 3:29 mean?

A plain-English look at Proverbs 3:29 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Proverbs 3:29 means

This verse explicitly warns against plotting evil or harmful intentions against one's neighbor, especially when that neighbor lives securely and trusts in one's presence. 'Devise not evil' means to not even conceive of malicious schemes. The phrase 'seeing he dwelleth securely by thee' underscores the betrayal of trust inherent in such actions, highlighting the moral responsibility to protect, not exploit, those who live in peace alongside you.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

Devise not evil against thy neighbor, Seeing he dwelleth securely by thee.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

Devise not evil against thy neighbour, seeing he dwelleth securely by thee.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

Devise not evil against thy neighbor, Seeing he dwelleth securely by thee.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

Do not make evil designs against your neighbour, when he is living with you without fear.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

Devise not against thy neighbour evil, And he sitting confidently with thee.

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

Practise not evil against thy friend, when he hath confidence in thee.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

Devise not evil against thy neighbour, seeing he dwelleth securely by thee.

Context

Following the instructions on generosity and timely help, this verse shifts to a direct warning against malicious intent and actions toward one's neighbor. It moves from the negative command of not withholding good to the even stronger prohibition of actively plotting harm. This logically progresses the theme of righteous social conduct, emphasizing not only what *to do* but also what *not to do* in order to maintain peace and trust in the community.

v.28Say not unto thy neighbor, Go, and come again, And to-morrow I will give; When thou hast it by thee.

v.29This passage

v.30Strive not with a man without cause, If he have done thee no harm.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Proverbs 6:18

    A heart that deviseth wicked purposes, Feet that are swift in running to mischief,

  • Proverbs 6:14

    In whose heart is perverseness, Who deviseth evil continually, Who soweth discord.

  • Psalms 55:20

    He hath put forth his hands against such as were at peace with him: He hath profaned his covenant.

  • Micah 2:1

    Woe to them that devise iniquity and work evil upon their beds! when the morning is light, they practise it, because it is in the power of their hand.

  • Psalms 59:3

    For, lo, they lie in wait for my soul; The mighty gather themselves together against me: Not for my transgression, nor for my sin, O Jehovah.

  • Proverbs 14:22

    Do they not err that devise evil? But mercy and truth shall be to them that devise good.

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