Proverbs 4:14 Meaning and Explanation
“Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Do not adopt the ways of the wicked and evil.
The Context of Proverbs 4:14
The father warns his son not to follow the path of the wicked.
What Does Proverbs 4:14 Mean?
The warning here is clear and direct: there is a path of the wicked and a way of evil men, and you must not enter it. The path metaphor carries the sense of a deliberate, chosen direction—one does not accidentally wander into evil but steps onto it. The warning presumes that this path is accessible and attractive, which is why the warning is necessary.
The repetition of 'path' and 'way' with the same essential meaning reinforces the importance and clarity of the command. The language does not debate whether evil is real or whether it should be avoided; it assumes the listener already agrees and simply calls for practical obedience. This transition from positive exhortation (pursue wisdom) to negative warning (avoid evil) reflects the two-fold nature of moral life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Proverbs 4:14
What does Proverbs 4:14 mean?
Do not adopt the ways of the wicked and evil.
What is the context of Proverbs 4:14?
The father warns his son not to follow the path of the wicked.