Righteousness vs. Wickedness: Unpacking Proverbs 10 Through Coptic Orthodox Eyes
Executive Summary ✨
Proverbs 10, the commencement of Solomon’s individual proverbs, presents a stark contrast between righteousness and wickedness. It’s a pithy exploration of moral choices and their inevitable consequences. Through insightful verses, Solomon emphasizes the blessedness of the righteous—their wisdom, integrity, and protection—versus the inevitable downfall of the wicked, characterized by deceit, folly, and eventual judgment. This chapter resonates deeply with Coptic Orthodox teachings, highlighting the importance of living a life pleasing to God, filled with good works and unwavering faith. The verses touch upon themes of diligence, speech, love, and ultimately, the enduring value of seeking God’s wisdom above all else. Let us delve into the depths of this chapter to unearth its rich spiritual treasures and apply them to our contemporary lives, finding a path toward true blessedness.
Proverbs 10, a cornerstone of wisdom literature, provides concise yet profound insights into the contrasting paths of the righteous and the wicked. This chapter, attributed to Solomon, masterfully illustrates how moral choices shape destinies. We will embark on a detailed, verse-by-verse commentary, exploring the rich theological tapestry woven throughout, with a particular focus on its relevance to the Coptic Orthodox tradition. Through the lens of Patristic wisdom and practical application, we aim to illuminate the timeless truths embedded within these ancient proverbs. This exploration will help us understand how to live a life of true wisdom and avoid the pitfalls of wickedness, ultimately finding joy and peace in God.
Commentary Sections
Proverbs 10:1 – The Wisdom of a Child
Hebrew (Transliterated): *Ben hakham yisammach av, uben kesil tugat ammo.*
KJV: A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish son is the heaviness of his mother.
NKJV: A wise son makes a glad father, But a foolish son is the grief of his mother.
This opening proverb emphasizes the profound impact children have on their parents. A wise son brings joy and honor to his father, while a foolish son causes grief and sorrow, particularly to his mother. Within the Coptic Orthodox tradition, familial piety is highly valued. This proverb underscores the importance of raising children in the fear of the Lord, instilling in them wisdom and virtue.
The pain a foolish child inflicts upon their parents, especially their mother, resonates with the Lamentations of Jeremiah (Lam 2:11), where Jerusalem weeps bitterly over the rebellion of her children. This verse calls us to pray fervently for our children, that they may choose the path of wisdom and bring blessings to their families. The responsibility to guide our children towards righteous living is a sacred duty.
Practical Application: Strive to be a source of joy and honor to your parents through wise choices and righteous living. As parents, prioritize raising children with a strong foundation in faith and virtue, reflecting the love of Christ through your care. Consider exploring Dohost for family resources.
Proverbs 10:2 – Treasures of Wickedness
Hebrew (Transliterated): *Lo yo’ilu otzerot risha, utzedakah tatzil mimavet.*
KJV: Treasures of wickedness profit nothing: but righteousness delivereth from death.
NKJV: Treasures gained by wickedness profit nothing, But righteousness delivers from death.
Here, Solomon contrasts ill-gotten gains with the saving power of righteousness. Treasures acquired through wickedness offer no lasting benefit and certainly provide no protection from death, either spiritual or physical. Righteousness, however, is a shield that delivers from death. This echoes the Coptic Orthodox understanding that true wealth lies not in material possessions but in a life lived according to God’s commandments.
Saint Athanasius, in *On the Incarnation*, writes, *Οὐ γὰρ τὸ σῶμα ἔσωσεν ἡ τοῦ Λόγου παρουσία, ἀλλὰ τὴν ψυχὴν, ἥτις θνητὴ ὑπῆρχεν διὰ τὴν παρακοήν. (Ou gar to sōma esōsen hē tou Logou parousia, alla tēn psychēn, hētis thnētē hypērchen dia tēn parakoēn.) – For the presence of the Word did not save the body, but the soul, which was mortal because of disobedience.* This aligns with the proverb’s emphasis on the soul’s true deliverance through righteousness, a salvation far exceeding earthly treasures. This verse emphasizes that true wealth comes from a life lived in accordance with God’s will.
Practical Application: Guard your heart against the temptation to acquire wealth through dishonest means. Invest instead in cultivating righteousness, knowing that it offers true and lasting security. Focus on building spiritual treasures rather than earthly ones, for the former will endure for eternity.
Proverbs 10:3 – The Lord Will Not Allow the Righteous to Famish
Hebrew (Transliterated): *Lo yar’iv Adonai nefesh tzaddik, vehavat resha’im yidhaf.*
KJV: The Lord will not suffer the soul of the righteous to famish: but he casteth away the substance of the wicked.
NKJV: The Lord will not allow the righteous soul to famish, But He casts away the desire of the wicked.
This proverb speaks of God’s providential care for the righteous. The Lord will not allow the soul of the righteous to lack sustenance, both physical and spiritual. In contrast, the desires and schemes of the wicked will ultimately come to nothing. This underscores the Coptic Orthodox belief in God’s unwavering love and protection for those who trust in Him.
The Psalmist proclaims, “I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread” (Psalm 37:25). This echoes the sentiment of Proverbs 10:3. We are encouraged to rely on God’s provision, trusting that He will meet our needs according to His perfect will. This verse reminds us to place our trust in God for both our physical and spiritual needs.
Practical Application: Trust in God’s provision for your life, knowing that He will never abandon those who seek Him. Focus on cultivating a righteous heart, trusting that God will meet your needs and fulfill His promises. Surrender your anxieties and fears to God, confident in His unwavering love and care.
Proverbs 10:4 – The Hand of the Diligent
Hebrew (Transliterated): *Rosh omeh oseh mekir, veyad harutzim taashir.*
KJV: He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.
NKJV: He who has a slack hand becomes poor, But the hand of the diligent makes one rich.
Diligent work leads to prosperity, while laziness leads to poverty. This principle applies not only to material wealth but also to spiritual growth. A diligent pursuit of God and His commandments will result in rich spiritual blessings. This proverb emphasizes the value of hard work and dedication in all aspects of life, reflecting the Coptic Orthodox emphasis on disciplined living.
Saint Anthony the Great, the father of monasticism, emphasized the importance of diligent spiritual labor. His life exemplifies the pursuit of holiness through disciplined prayer, fasting, and service. This proverb reminds us that spiritual riches, like material wealth, require diligent effort and perseverance. Just as physical labor yields material rewards, spiritual labor yields spiritual blessings.
Practical Application: Cultivate diligence in your work, studies, and spiritual practices. Avoid laziness and procrastination, recognizing that hard work is a pathway to both material and spiritual prosperity. Commit yourself to disciplined living, striving for excellence in all that you do for the glory of God.
Proverbs 10:5 – He That Gathereth in Summer
Hebrew (Transliterated): *Oger bakayitz ben maskil, neredam bikatzir ben mevish.*
KJV: He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame.
NKJV: He who gathers in summer is a wise son; He who sleeps in harvest is a son who causes shame.
This proverb illustrates the importance of seizing opportunities and acting with foresight. A wise son gathers during the summer, preparing for the future, while a foolish son sleeps during the harvest, missing the opportunity and bringing shame upon his family. This mirrors the Coptic Orthodox understanding of spiritual readiness, urging us to be vigilant and prepared for the Lord’s return.
The parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30) echoes this principle. Those who diligently use their gifts are rewarded, while those who neglect them are condemned. This proverb reminds us that we are accountable for the opportunities and gifts God has given us. We must use them wisely and diligently, lest we face regret and shame.
Practical Application: Be diligent in seizing opportunities for spiritual growth and service. Do not procrastinate or delay important tasks. Be prepared for the challenges and opportunities that life brings, acting with foresight and wisdom. Use your God-given gifts wisely and diligently for His glory and the benefit of others.
Proverbs 10:6 – Blessings Are Upon the Head of the Just
Hebrew (Transliterated): *Berachot lerosh tzaddik, ufi resha’im yichaseh hamas.*
KJV: Blessings are upon the head of the just: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked.
NKJV: Blessings are on the head of the righteous, But violence covers the mouth of the wicked.
The righteous are blessed abundantly, while the wicked are consumed by their own violence and deceit. The blessing upon the righteous is a manifestation of God’s favor and protection. The violence that covers the mouth of the wicked speaks of their deceitful and destructive words, which ultimately bring about their own downfall. This reinforces the Coptic Orthodox teaching on the power of words and the importance of speaking truth and love.
Saint James writes, “Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be” (James 3:10). This verse emphasizes the importance of controlling our tongues and using our words to bless and uplift others. The wicked use their words for violence and deceit, while the righteous use their words for blessing and truth.
Practical Application: Speak words of blessing, encouragement, and truth. Avoid gossip, slander, and hurtful speech. Use your words to build up others and glorify God. Let your speech be seasoned with grace, reflecting the love and compassion of Christ.
Proverbs 10:7 – The Memory of the Just is Blessed
Hebrew (Transliterated): *Zecher tzaddik livrachah, veshem resha’im yirkav.*
KJV: The memory of the just is blessed: but the name of the wicked shall rot.
NKJV: The memory of the righteous is blessed, But the name of the wicked will rot.
The righteous are remembered with honor and blessing, while the wicked are forgotten or remembered with shame. This proverb highlights the enduring impact of a righteous life. A life lived in accordance with God’s will leaves a legacy of love, faith, and good works. In contrast, the wicked leave behind a legacy of destruction and shame. This verse highlights the Coptic Orthodox emphasis on living a life that glorifies God and inspires others.
The lives of the saints serve as powerful examples of this principle. Their memory is cherished and celebrated throughout the Church. Their stories inspire us to live lives of holiness and devotion. This proverb reminds us that our actions have lasting consequences, shaping the legacy we leave behind.
Practical Application: Strive to live a life that glorifies God and inspires others. Let your actions be guided by love, faith, and integrity. Build a legacy of righteousness that will be remembered with blessing and honor. Seek to emulate the virtues of the saints, leaving a lasting impact on the world for good.
Proverbs 10:8 – The Wise in Heart Will Receive Commandments
Hebrew (Transliterated): *Hakham lev yikakh mitzvot, usefeh evillim yilevat.*
KJV: The wise in heart will receive commandments: but a prating fool shall fall.
NKJV: The wise in heart will receive commands, But a prating fool will fall.
A wise person readily accepts instruction and guidance, while a foolish person talks too much and ultimately stumbles. Wisdom involves humility and a willingness to learn. The wise in heart understand the importance of obeying God’s commandments. This verse highlights the Coptic Orthodox emphasis on obedience to God’s will and the teachings of the Church.
Our Lord Jesus Christ Himself said, “If you love Me, keep My commandments” (John 14:15). This emphasizes the link between love for God and obedience to His commandments. The wise in heart demonstrate their love for God through their obedience. This verse serves as a call to embrace humility and obedience in our pursuit of wisdom.
Practical Application: Cultivate a humble and teachable spirit. Be open to receiving correction and instruction from God and others. Obey God’s commandments and follow the teachings of the Church. Avoid excessive talking and foolish chatter. Let your actions be guided by wisdom and obedience.
Proverbs 10:9 – He That Walketh Uprightly Walketh Surely
Hebrew (Transliterated): *Holech betom yelech betaĥ, ume’akeish derakav yivada.*
KJV: He that walketh uprightly walketh surely: but he that perverteth his ways shall be known.
NKJV: He who walks with integrity walks securely, But he who perverts his ways will become known.
Integrity leads to security and stability, while dishonesty leads to exposure and shame. The person who lives with integrity walks confidently, knowing that their actions are aligned with truth and righteousness. The person who perverts their ways will eventually be found out, and their deceit will be exposed. This aligns with the Coptic Orthodox emphasis on living a life of honesty and transparency.
Saint Peter encourages us to “have your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation” (1 Peter 2:12). This highlights the importance of living a life of integrity that reflects the light of Christ. Our actions speak louder than words.
Practical Application: Live with integrity and honesty in all your dealings. Avoid deception and dishonesty. Let your actions be consistent with your words. Walk uprightly before God and others, knowing that integrity leads to security and peace of mind.
Proverbs 10:10 – He That Winketh with the Eye
Hebrew (Transliterated): *Koret ain yiten etzev, usefeh evillim yilevat.*
KJV: He that winketh with the eye causeth sorrow: but a prating fool shall fall.
NKJV: He who winks with the eye causes trouble, But a prating fool will fall.
Deceitful actions, even subtle ones like winking, cause trouble and sorrow. Again, the proverb contrasts this with the downfall of the talkative fool. Hidden motives and manipulative behaviors sow discord. This connects to the Coptic Orthodox emphasis on transparency and straightforwardness in our relationships. Clear communication and honesty are vital for maintaining peace within the community.
This verse reminds us of the subtle ways in which we can deceive others and ourselves. Even seemingly small acts of dishonesty can have significant consequences. The “winking” can represent manipulative tactics or insincere communication designed to mislead. The Coptic Orthodox Church teaches that we must strive for transparency and authenticity in all our relationships. We must avoid any form of deceit, no matter how small it may seem.
Practical Application: Examine your own behavior for any subtle forms of deceit or manipulation. Commit to being honest and transparent in your interactions with others. Avoid hidden agendas and manipulative tactics. Strive for clear and straightforward communication in all your relationships. Ask God for guidance in building genuine connections.
Proverbs 10:11 – The Mouth of a Righteous Man is a Well of Life
Hebrew (Transliterated): *Pee tzaddik mekor chayim, ufi resha’im yichaseh hamas.*
KJV: The mouth of a righteous man is a well of life: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked.
NKJV: The mouth of the righteous is a well of life, But violence covers the mouth of the wicked.
The words of the righteous are a source of life and encouragement, while the words of the wicked are filled with violence and destruction. The righteous speak truth, wisdom, and love, offering hope and healing to those around them. This proverb underscores the Coptic Orthodox teaching on the power of words and the importance of using them to build up and edify others.
Our Lord Jesus Christ said, “The words that I speak to you, they are spirit, and they are life” (John 6:63). This verse highlights the transformative power of words spoken in truth and love. The righteous speak words that bring life and healing, while the wicked speak words that bring death and destruction. This emphasizes the responsibility we have to use our words wisely and carefully.
Practical Application: Speak words of life, encouragement, and truth. Avoid negative, critical, and destructive speech. Use your words to build up and edify others. Share the wisdom and love of Christ with those around you. Be a source of hope and healing in a world filled with darkness and despair.
Proverbs 10:12 – Hatred Stirreth Up Strifes
Hebrew (Transliterated): *Sinah teorer medanim, veal kol pesha’im tecaseh ahavah.*
KJV: Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins.
NKJV: Hatred stirs up strife, But love covers all sins.
Hatred fuels conflict, while love forgives and overlooks offenses. This proverb speaks to the transformative power of love in resolving conflict and fostering unity. Love, in the Coptic Orthodox understanding, is not merely an emotion but a deliberate act of the will, rooted in the love of Christ. Love enables us to forgive others and to cover over their sins, promoting reconciliation and peace.
Saint Paul writes, “Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things” (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). This passage beautifully describes the nature of true love, which is essential for overcoming hatred and strife.
Practical Application: Cultivate love in your heart, rooted in the love of Christ. Forgive others who have wronged you. Seek to reconcile with those with whom you are in conflict. Practice patience, kindness, and humility in your relationships. Let love be the guiding principle in all your interactions, fostering peace and unity.
Proverbs 10:13 – In the Lips of Him That Hath Understanding
Hebrew (Transliterated): *Bisefteh navon timatza ĥochmah, veshevet leger lev hasar lev.*
KJV: In the lips of him that hath understanding wisdom is found: but a rod is for the back of him that is void of understanding.
NKJV: Wisdom is found on the lips of him who has understanding, But a rod is for the back of him who is devoid of understanding.
Wisdom is evident in the speech of the understanding, while the foolish require discipline to learn. The words of the wise are filled with knowledge and insight, offering guidance and direction to others. The foolish, however, lack understanding and require correction to learn. This aligns with the Coptic Orthodox emphasis on the importance of seeking wisdom and knowledge from God and from those who are wise.
Saint Basil the Great encourages us to “apply yourself to reading the Scriptures; for they contain the word of eternal life. You will find in them the food which nourishes the soul, and the light which illuminates the mind.” This highlights the importance of seeking wisdom and understanding from the Scriptures. The wise person diligently studies and applies the teachings of the Bible.
Practical Application: Seek wisdom and understanding from God and from those who are wise. Study the Scriptures and apply their teachings to your life. Be open to correction and instruction. Avoid foolishness and ignorance. Let your words be guided by wisdom and understanding.
Proverbs 10:14 – Wise Men Lay Up Knowledge
Hebrew (Transliterated): *Chakamim yitzpenu daat, ufi evil keres meĥatah kereva.*
KJV: Wise men lay up knowledge: but the mouth of the foolish is near destruction.
NKJV: Wise people store up knowledge, But the mouth of the foolish is near destruction.
Wise people treasure knowledge and use it prudently, while the mouth of the foolish brings them to ruin. This proverb highlights the importance of seeking knowledge and using it wisely. Wise people carefully gather and store knowledge, using it for the benefit of themselves and others. The foolish, however, recklessly speak without thinking, bringing destruction upon themselves.
Saint Cyril of Alexandria wrote, “For the fruit of wisdom is eternal life, and its root is the fear of the Lord.” This emphasizes the link between wisdom and reverence for God. True wisdom begins with recognizing and honoring God as the source of all truth and knowledge.
Practical Application: Seek knowledge and understanding from God and from reputable sources. Study diligently and carefully. Store up knowledge in your heart and mind. Use your knowledge wisely and prudently. Avoid foolishness and recklessness. Let your words be guided by wisdom and discernment.
Proverbs 10:15 – The Rich Man’s Wealth is His Strong City
Hebrew (Transliterated): *Hon ashir kirmat tzumato, meduchat dallim resham.*
KJV: The rich man’s wealth is his strong city: the destruction of the poor is their poverty.
NKJV: The rich man’s wealth is his city of defense; The destruction of the poor is their poverty.
While wealth provides a sense of security for the rich, poverty can lead to destruction for the poor. This proverb highlights the disparities between the rich and the poor. While wealth can offer a degree of protection and security, poverty can expose people to vulnerability and hardship. This aligns with the Coptic Orthodox emphasis on caring for the poor and vulnerable and working towards justice and equality.
Saint John Chrysostom wrote, “Not to share one’s wealth with the poor is to steal from them and to deprive them of their livelihood. It is not our own goods which we hold, but theirs.” This emphasizes the responsibility of the rich to care for the poor and share their resources generously. The early Church prioritized caring for the marginalized.
Practical Application: Recognize the limitations of wealth and avoid placing your trust in it. Be generous and compassionate towards the poor and vulnerable. Support initiatives that promote justice and equality. Use your resources to help those in need. Remember that true security comes from God, not from material possessions.
Proverbs 10:16 – The Labour of the Righteous Tendeth to Life
Hebrew (Transliterated): *Peulat tzaddik lechayim, tenu’at rasha lechetaat.*
KJV: The labour of the righteous tendeth to life: the fruit of the wicked to sin.
NKJV: The labor of the righteous leads to life, The wages of the wicked to sin.
The work of the righteous leads to life, while the earnings of the wicked lead to sin. The righteous diligently labor with honest intentions, producing good results that benefit themselves and others. The wicked, however, engage in dishonest and harmful activities, leading to sin and destruction. This aligns with the Coptic Orthodox emphasis on living a life of integrity and working for the good of others.
Saint Paul writes, “Let him who stole steal no longer, but rather let him labor, working with his hands what is good, that he may have something to give to him who needs” (Ephesians 4:28). This emphasizes the importance of honest labor and generosity. We should work diligently to provide for ourselves and to have something to share with those in need.
Practical Application: Engage in honest and productive labor. Avoid dishonest and harmful activities. Strive to produce good results that benefit yourself and others. Be generous and compassionate towards those in need. Let your work be guided by integrity and a desire to serve God and others.
Proverbs 10:17 – He is in the Way of Life That Keepeth Instruction
Hebrew (Transliterated): *Orah lechayim shomer musar, veozav tochehat mat’eh.*
KJV: He is in the way of life that keepeth instruction: but he that refuseth reproof erreth.
NKJV: He who keeps instruction is in the way of life, But he who refuses correction goes astray.
Following instruction leads to life, while rejecting correction leads to error. A wise person is willing to receive instruction and correction, understanding that it is essential for growth and maturity. A foolish person, however, rejects correction and stubbornly follows their own path, leading to error and destruction. This reinforces the Coptic Orthodox emphasis on humility and teachableness.
This verse reminds us of the importance of humility and receptivity to guidance. We all need instruction and correction from time to time. The Coptic Orthodox Church offers us the sacraments, the guidance of the clergy, and the wisdom of the saints to help us stay on the path to salvation. We must be open to receiving this guidance and allowing it to shape our lives.
Practical Application: Be open to receiving instruction and correction from God and from those who are wise. Cultivate humility and teachableness. Avoid stubbornness and pride. Recognize your limitations and seek guidance from trusted sources. Embrace opportunities for growth and learning.
Proverbs 10:18 – He that Hideth Hatred with Lying Lips
Hebrew (Transliterated): *Mekaseh sinah siftei sheker, umotzi dibah hu kesil.*
KJV: He that hideth hatred with lying lips, and he that uttereth a slander, is a fool.
NKJV: Whoever hides hatred has lying lips, And whoever spreads slander is a fool.
Hiding hatred with deceitful words and spreading slander are both characteristic of foolishness. Hypocrisy and gossip are both condemned. This aligns with the Coptic Orthodox emphasis on honesty and sincerity in our relationships with one another. We should strive to be authentic in our words and actions, avoiding deceit and malicious speech. The passage underscores the importance of transparent relationships and the harm that can be caused by gossip and false accusations.
This verse shines a light on the dangers of hypocrisy and malicious gossip. Concealing hatred behind a facade of pleasant words is a form of deceit. Spreading slander and false accusations can ruin reputations and destroy relationships. The Coptic Orthodox Church teaches that we must be vigilant against these destructive behaviors. We must strive for honesty and sincerity in all our interactions and refrain from engaging in gossip or malicious speech.
Practical Application: Be honest and sincere in your relationships with others. Avoid hypocrisy and deceit. Refrain from gossip and slander. Speak kindly and truthfully about others. Promote unity and reconciliation in your community. Let your words be guided by love and compassion.
Proverbs 10:19 – In the Multitude of Words There Wanteth Not Sin
Hebrew (Transliterated): *Berov devarim lo yeĥdal pesha, veĥosek sefatav maskil.*
KJV: In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.
NKJV: In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, But he who restrains his lips is wise.
The more one speaks, the more likely they are to sin; restraint is a sign of wisdom. This proverb highlights the importance of careful speech and self-control. Excessive talking often leads to careless words, which can easily lead to sin. This aligns with the Coptic Orthodox emphasis on controlling our tongues and speaking with wisdom and discernment.
This verse is a reminder that our words have power. The more we speak, the more opportunities we have to say something harmful, untrue, or unkind. The Coptic Orthodox Church teaches that we must be mindful of the words we use and strive to speak with love, wisdom, and discernment. Restraining our tongues and thinking before we speak are signs of wisdom.
Practical Application: Be mindful of your words. Think before you speak. Avoid excessive talking and idle chatter. Speak with wisdom and discernment. Use your words to build up and encourage others. Practice self-control and restraint in your speech.
Proverbs 10:20 – The Tongue of the Just is as Choice Silver
Hebrew (Transliterated): *Kesef nivĥar leshon tzaddik, lev resha’im kim’at.*
KJV: The tongue of the just is as choice silver: the heart of the wicked is little worth.
NKJV: The tongue of the righteous is choice silver; The heart of the wicked is worth little.
The speech of the righteous is valuable and pure, while the heart of the wicked is worthless. This proverb emphasizes the value of righteous speech and the worthlessness of a wicked heart. The words of the righteous are like refined silver, precious and valuable. The heart of the wicked, however, is of little worth because it is filled with evil intentions.
This verse contrasts the value of righteous speech with the worthlessness of a wicked heart. The tongue of the righteous speaks truth, wisdom, and love. The heart of the wicked, however, is filled with evil intentions and destructive desires. This reminds us that our words reflect the condition of our hearts. We must strive to purify our hearts and fill them with love and compassion.
Practical Application: Strive to speak with truth, wisdom, and love. Purify your heart and fill it with compassion. Avoid wickedness and evil intentions. Let your words reflect the goodness of your heart. Remember that your speech reveals your inner character.
Proverbs 10:21 – The Lips of the Righteous Feed Many
Hebrew (Transliterated): *Sifteh tzaddik yir’u rabbim, ve’evillim beĥasar lev yamutu.*
KJV: The lips of the righteous feed many: but fools die for want of wisdom.
NKJV: The lips of the righteous feed many, But fools die for lack of wisdom.
The righteous provide spiritual nourishment through their words, while fools perish for lack of wisdom. The words of the righteous are a source of spiritual sustenance for many. Their wise counsel and encouraging words guide others towards truth and righteousness. This aligns with the Coptic Orthodox emphasis on sharing our faith and guiding others towards salvation. This also highlights that the foolish perish because they reject wisdom.
This verse reinforces the importance of sharing our faith and guiding others towards salvation. The righteous use their words to feed others spiritually, offering wisdom, encouragement, and hope. The foolish, however, reject wisdom and ultimately perish. This reminds us that we have a responsibility to share the truth with those around us and to help them find their way to Christ.
Practical Application: Share your faith with others. Offer wise counsel and encouragement. Guide others towards truth and righteousness. Use your words to feed others spiritually. Be a source of hope and inspiration. Seek to lead others to Christ.
Proverbs 10:22 – The Blessing of the Lord, It Maketh Rich
Hebrew (Transliterated): *Birkat Adonai hee ta’ashir, velo yosef etzev ima.*
KJV: The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it.
NKJV: The blessing of the Lord makes one rich, And He adds no sorrow with it.
True wealth comes from God’s blessing, accompanied by no sorrow, unlike wealth gained through worldly means. This proverb emphasizes that true prosperity comes from God. Material wealth gained through dishonest means may bring temporary pleasure but ultimately leads to sorrow and emptiness. God’s blessing, however, brings true and lasting joy and prosperity without any accompanying sorrow.
This verse reminds us that we should seek God’s blessing above all else. Material wealth is fleeting and can easily be lost. God’s blessing, however, is enduring and brings true and lasting joy. We should strive to live lives that are pleasing to God, knowing that His blessing is the source of all true prosperity.
Practical Application: Seek God’s blessing above all else. Live a life that is pleasing to Him. Trust in His provision and guidance. Avoid seeking wealth through dishonest means. Remember that true prosperity comes from God and is accompanied by joy and peace.
Proverbs 10:23 – It is as Sport to a Fool to Do Mischief
Hebrew (Transliterated): *Kisceĥok lichesil asot zimmah, vechochmah leish tevunah.*
KJV: It is as sport to a fool to do mischief: but a man of understanding hath wisdom.
NKJV: To do evil is like sport to a fool, But a man of understanding has wisdom.
A fool finds pleasure in doing wrong, but a wise person finds joy in wisdom. A foolish person delights in causing harm and disruption, while a wise person finds satisfaction in pursuing knowledge and understanding. This aligns with the Coptic Orthodox emphasis on seeking virtue and avoiding vice.
This verse highlights the contrasting values of the fool and the wise person. The fool seeks pleasure in evil deeds, while the wise person seeks joy in wisdom and understanding. The Coptic Orthodox Church teaches that we should strive to cultivate virtue and avoid vice. We should seek to find joy in doing what is right and pleasing to God.
Practical Application: Seek joy in wisdom and understanding. Avoid finding pleasure in evil deeds. Cultivate virtue and avoid vice. Strive to do what is right and pleasing to God. Let your actions be guided by wisdom and love.