Proverbs 1:16

Letters to the Faithful - Proverbs 1:16

Berean Standard Bible

For their feet run to evil, and they are swift to shed blood.

King James Bible

For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood.

Hebrew Text:

כִּי רַגְלֵיהֶם לָרָע יָרוּצוּ וִימַהֲרוּ לִשְׁפָּךְ דָּם׃

Transliteration:

Ki ragleihem lara yarutzu v'yimaharu lishpoch dam.

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For their feet run to evil

This phrase highlights the natural inclination of the wicked towards wrongdoing. In biblical context, "feet" often symbolize one's path or way of life. The imagery of running suggests eagerness and haste, indicating a deliberate choice to pursue evil. This aligns with the broader biblical theme of the sinful nature of humanity, as seen in Genesis 6:5, where every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time. The phrase also echoes the warning in Isaiah 59:7, where it is said that their feet rush into sin. This reflects a lifestyle that is contrary to the wisdom and righteousness that Proverbs advocates.

and they are swift to shed blood

This part of the verse underscores the violent tendencies of those who reject wisdom. The swiftness to shed blood indicates a readiness to commit acts of violence without hesitation. Historically, this can be seen in the context of ancient Near Eastern cultures, where blood feuds and violent retribution were common. The shedding of blood is a grave sin, as life is sacred and created in the image of God (Genesis 9:6). This phrase also connects to the New Testament, where Jesus teaches about the sanctity of life and condemns anger and hatred as akin to murder (Matthew 5:21-22). The swift movement towards violence is a stark contrast to the peace and reconciliation that Christ embodies and calls His followers to pursue.

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For their feet run to evil, and they make haste to shed blood. This verse, nestled within the opening chapter of Proverbs, serves as a vivid warning against the allure of sinful paths, particularly those marked by violence and malice. Spoken within the context of a father’s instruction to his son, or Wisdom’s call to the simple, Proverbs 1:16 unveils the reckless urgency of those who pursue wickedness, painting a portrait of human depravity that is both sobering and instructive. As part of the broader discourse in Proverbs 1:10–19, which cautions against the enticements of sinners, this verse stands as a stark depiction of the moral trajectory of those who reject wisdom’s counsel, revealing the destructive momentum of a heart bent on evil.

The imagery of “feet” running to evil is striking, evoking a sense of deliberate and eager movement. In the ancient Near Eastern context, feet symbolize one’s direction or way of life, the path one chooses to tread. Here, the verb *ruts*, translated as “run,” conveys not a casual stroll but a swift, intentional rush, as if the wicked are propelled by an insatiable desire for wrongdoing. This is no reluctant descent into sin but a headlong plunge, a vivid illustration of the heart’s corruption when unrestrained by wisdom or fear of the Lord. The term “evil” (*ra’*) encompasses a broad spectrum of moral and ethical failure, from deceit and oppression to outright violence. It is a comprehensive indictment of the sinful inclination that, unchecked, leads to actions that harm others and defy God’s order.

The latter clause, “and they make haste to shed blood,” intensifies the warning by specifying the grievous outcome of this reckless pursuit. The phrase “make haste” parallels the earlier “run,” reinforcing the sense of urgency and intentionality. The verb *mahar* suggests a hurried, almost compulsive drive, as if the wicked cannot wait to enact their destructive intentions. To “shed blood” is a graphic expression of violence, often associated in Scripture with murder or oppression (cf. Isaiah 59:7, which echoes this verse). In the cultural and theological milieu of Proverbs, bloodshed is not merely a physical act but a profound violation of the divine image in humanity, an affront to the God who gives life. The phrase underscores the ultimate consequence of following the path of sinners: a life that destroys rather than builds, that takes rather than gives.

Contextually, Proverbs 1:16 is part of a warning against the seductive call of those who entice the young or naive to join in their schemes (Proverbs 1:10–11). These sinners promise wealth and companionship, but their path leads to destruction, as verses 18–19 make clear: “These men lie in wait for their own blood; they ambush only themselves!” The urgency described in verse 16, therefore, is not only a mark of their eagerness for evil but also a foreshadowing of their self-inflicted ruin. The irony is palpable: those who rush to shed blood hasten toward their own demise, ensnared by the very traps they set for others. This theme of poetic justice recurs throughout Proverbs, reflecting the biblical principle that the way of the wicked leads to death (Proverbs 14:12).

Theologically, this verse illuminates the depravity of the human heart apart from divine wisdom. The “fear of the Lord,” introduced in Proverbs 1:7 as the foundation of wisdom, stands in direct contrast to the reckless abandon of those who run to evil. The imagery of running suggests a heart that is not merely tempted but wholly given over to sin, a state that Psalm 1:6 describes as the “way of the wicked” that perishes. Yet, Proverbs 1:16 is not merely a condemnation; it is a call to discernment. By vividly portraying the path of the wicked, the verse urges the reader to choose the way of wisdom, to walk in the fear of the Lord rather than sprint toward destruction.

The allusion to violence in “shed blood” also carries a broader significance, pointing to the societal and communal consequences of sin. In the covenantal framework of Israel, acts of violence disrupted the shalom that God intended for His people. Proverbs, as wisdom literature, is deeply concerned with the ordering of human life in harmony with God’s design. The haste to shed blood represents a rejection of this order, a choice to prioritize self-interest over the well-being of others. This resonates with the prophetic tradition, where bloodshed is often linked to injustice and oppression (e.g., Micah 3:10). Thus, Proverbs 1:16 serves as a warning not only to individuals but to communities, cautioning against the collective descent into violence and moral decay.

The verse also finds echoes in the New Testament, particularly in Romans 3:15, where Paul quotes Isaiah 59:7, a passage closely aligned with Proverbs 1:16: “Their feet are swift to shed blood.” Paul uses this imagery to underscore the universal sinfulness of humanity, Jew and Gentile alike, highlighting the need for redemption through Christ. In this light, Proverbs 1:16 becomes not only a warning but a diagnostic of the human condition, revealing the heart’s propensity to run toward evil apart from God’s grace. For the Christian reader, the verse points to the transformative power of the Gospel, which redirects the feet from the path of destruction to the way of life.

Practically, Proverbs 1:16 invites reflection on the choices that shape one’s life. The imagery of running suggests momentum, a trajectory set by repeated decisions. The verse challenges the reader to consider the direction of their own “feet”—the habits, associations, and desires that propel them forward. It warns against the seductive allure of quick gain or fleeting pleasure, which often masks a violent or destructive end. In a world where the enticements of sin remain ever-present, whether through greed, anger, or ambition, the verse calls for vigilance, urging the reader to heed wisdom’s voice and resist the haste that leads to ruin.

In its broader literary context, Proverbs 1:16 serves as a vivid contrast to the blessings of wisdom described throughout the chapter. While the wicked run to evil, Wisdom calls out to guide the simple to understanding (Proverbs 1:20–23). While sinners hasten to shed blood, Wisdom offers life and security to those who walk in her ways (Proverbs 1:33). This contrast underscores the central message of Proverbs: the path one chooses—whether wisdom or folly—determines one’s destiny. The urgency of the wicked’s pursuit of evil is met with the equally compelling call of Wisdom, inviting all to turn from destruction and embrace the fear of the Lord.

In sum, Proverbs 1:16 is a poignant warning against the seductive and destructive path of sin. Its vivid imagery of feet running to evil and hastening to shed blood captures the reckless abandon of those who reject wisdom, while also pointing to the self-inflicted ruin that awaits them. Yet, within this warning lies an invitation—to choose the way of wisdom, to walk in the fear of the Lord, and to find life in the paths of righteousness. For the reader, ancient or modern, the verse remains a timeless call to discernment, urging all to consider the direction of their steps and the destiny to which they run.

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To all the beloved of the Lord, called to be saints, sanctified by the Spirit and made partakers of the grace that is in Christ Jesus our Lord: grace to you and peace, from Him who is and who was and who is to come.

Beloved, I write to you in these days when evil hastens through the land, and the hearts of many are drawn astray by its allure. The words of wisdom cry aloud in the streets, and the voice of understanding lifts itself in the public square, yet many turn away and refuse to listen. The proverb speaks truly: “their feet run to evil, and they hurry to shed blood.” Such is the way of those who reject the fear of the Lord and delight in the counsel of the wicked.

Therefore, I exhort you, my brothers and sisters, to walk circumspectly, not as the unwise but as those who have been taught by the Spirit of truth. Consider well the path on which you tread. For the feet that run to evil soon become bound by it, and those who hasten to do wrong find themselves ensnared. The way of transgressors is hard, and the end thereof is death.

It is written that evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the Lord understand it fully. The one who despises the instruction of wisdom sets himself upon a perilous road. He is as one walking in darkness, not knowing where he stumbles. And how great is that darkness when evil is pursued with eagerness and violence is embraced with delight.

Yet you, beloved, have not so learned Christ. If indeed you have heard Him and have been taught in Him, as the truth is in Jesus, then put off the old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires. Put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.

I entreat you, therefore, to heed the wisdom that is from above. Guard your hearts with all diligence, for from them flow the springs of life. Turn your feet away from every crooked path. Let your eyes look directly forward; let your gaze be straight before you. Ponder the path of your feet; then all your ways will be sure.

Know this also, dear ones: the haste to do evil arises from a heart untethered from the fear of the Lord. When reverence for God is cast aside, wickedness follows swiftly. The feet that run to evil are driven by greed, pride, jealousy, and the lust for power. But the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and all who practice it have a good understanding.

Therefore, let your feet be swift to do good and slow to anger. Let your hands be diligent in works of righteousness and your mouths filled with words of peace. Bless those who persecute you; pray for those who oppose you. Repay no one evil for evil, but overcome evil with good. For vengeance belongs to the Lord; He will repay. You, beloved, are called to be vessels of mercy, lights in a world darkened by sin.

Mark this as well: in the last days, perilous times will come, and many will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient, ungrateful, and unholy. They will run to evil and be swift to shed innocent blood. But you, O people of God, must stand firm. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect.

Finally, beloved, remember Him whose feet never hastened to evil, who walked the path of perfect righteousness. Our Lord Jesus Christ, though tempted in every way as we are, yet without sin, bore our iniquities and carried our sorrows. He suffered for the unjust that He might bring us to God. Therefore, follow in His steps. Walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave Himself for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful; He will surely do it.

To Him be glory, honor, dominion, and power, both now and forevermore.

Amen.

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O Lord, Most High, Sovereign over all the earth, whose throne is founded upon righteousness and justice, whose eyes behold all the ways of man, and whose wisdom surpasses all understanding: we come before You this day with reverent hearts and humble spirits, seeking the light of Your countenance and the guidance of Your hand.

For Your word declares, “their feet run to evil, and they hurry to shed blood.” And behold, O Lord, the ways of the wicked are swift upon the earth. Violence increases in the streets; deceit is spoken without shame; the innocent are oppressed; the poor are trampled; justice is perverted. The feet of many hasten to do wrong, and their hearts are set on mischief. They delight in wickedness and call evil good and good evil.

Have mercy upon us, O Lord. For our nation, for our cities, for our homes, we cry to You. Turn the hearts of men from evil; restrain the hand that is quick to shed innocent blood. Cause the way of the violent to be confounded; let the devices of the wicked come to nothing. Look with pity upon a world wandering far from Your paths. Where hatred divides, sow seeds of love. Where cruelty abounds, raise up voices of peace. Where injustice reigns, let righteousness flow like a mighty river.

O God of truth, we confess that even within our own hearts there lies the seed of every evil deed. Pride and envy, anger and selfish desire dwell within us by nature. We were once foolish and disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures. But by Your mercy You have saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewal by the Holy Spirit. Therefore, we ask You now to purify our hearts and guard our steps, that our feet may not run to evil, nor our hands be raised in harm.

Teach us to love that which is good, to hate what is evil, and to cling to Your truth. Let the mind of Christ be in us, that we may walk as He walked. May our feet be swift to bring good news, to proclaim peace, to announce salvation, and to declare that You reign. May our hands be diligent in works of mercy; may our voices speak with wisdom and kindness; may our lives be a testimony to Your grace.

Strengthen us, O Lord, to stand firm in these days of trouble. Though many pursue the paths of wickedness, may we not be counted among them. Keep us from the snare of the evil one; deliver us from the schemes of those who plot harm. Preserve us from temptation; lead us in the way everlasting.

We pray for our children and for the generations to come. In a world where feet run to evil, may they be taught to walk in Your ways. Give them discernment to recognize the path of righteousness. Let them be as lights in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation. Surround them with Your truth; uphold them with Your Spirit.

We pray for the leaders of the nations, for judges and magistrates, for rulers and authorities. Grant them wisdom from above, that they may not hasten to shed innocent blood, nor be swayed by the counsel of the wicked. May justice be established and upheld in every land. Let Your righteousness exalt the nations; let Your truth guide the hearts of kings.

O Lord, we await the day when the feet of those who run to evil will run no more, when the weapons of war will be broken, and peace will cover the earth as the waters cover the sea. Until that day, make us faithful witnesses, ambassadors of reconciliation, ministers of Your grace. Let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not faint.

And now, to You, O God of hope, who fills us with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit we may abound in hope—to You be glory and majesty, dominion and authority, before all time and now and forever.

Amen.