Proverbs 11:5 Meaning and Explanation
“The righteousness of the perfect shall direct his way: but the wicked shall fall by his own wickedness.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Upright living straightens the path forward; wickedness creates the circumstances of one's own downfall.
The Context of Proverbs 11:5
The contrasting trajectories of the righteous and wicked.
What Does Proverbs 11:5 Mean?
The righteous are 'directed' or 'made straight'—their way is cleared and their path becomes clear because their integrity aligns them with how reality actually works. They need not fear hidden obstacles or unexpected reversals born of their own duplicity.
The wicked, meanwhile, fall not because of external punishment but because their wickedness becomes their stumbling block. Their own crooked nature trips them up, leading them into the very pit they dug for others.
Frequently Asked Questions About Proverbs 11:5
What does Proverbs 11:5 mean?
Upright living straightens the path forward; wickedness creates the circumstances of one's own downfall.
What is the context of Proverbs 11:5?
The contrasting trajectories of the righteous and wicked.