Genuine righteousness leads to lifeThis phrase emphasizes the biblical principle that true righteousness, which aligns with God's standards, results in life. In the Hebrew context, "life" often signifies not just physical existence but a quality of life that includes peace, prosperity, and spiritual fulfillment. This concept is echoed in
Deuteronomy 30:19-20, where choosing life is equated with loving and obeying God. The idea of righteousness leading to life is also seen in the teachings of Jesus, who declared Himself the "way, the truth, and the life" (
John 14:6), indicating that a relationship with Him is the ultimate fulfillment of this proverb. Theologically, this righteousness is not self-derived but is imparted through faith, as seen in
Romans 3:22, where righteousness comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.
but the pursuit of evil brings death
This part of the verse contrasts the outcome of pursuing evil with that of righteousness. In biblical terms, "death" often refers to spiritual death or separation from God, as seen inRomans 6:23, which states that the wages of sin is death. The pursuit of evil is a deliberate choice to follow a path contrary to God's will, leading to destruction and judgment. This is illustrated in the story of Cain, whose choice to harbor sin led to the first murder and his subsequent banishment (Genesis 4:7-12). The cultural context of ancient Israel viewed evil as not just individual acts but as a path or lifestyle that leads away from God's covenant blessings. This principle is timeless, warning believers of the consequences of sin and the importance of repentance and turning back to God, as seen in the call to repentance inEzekiel 18:30-32.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
Solomon- Traditionally regarded as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. His proverbs often contrast the outcomes of righteous and wicked living.
2.
Israel- The nation to whom the Proverbs were originally addressed. The Israelites were God's chosen people, and the wisdom literature was intended to guide them in living according to God's laws.
3.
The Righteous- In the context of Proverbs, the righteous are those who live in accordance with God's commandments and seek to embody His character.
4.
The Wicked- Those who pursue evil and live contrary to God's ways, often leading to destructive outcomes.
5.
Life and Death- These are not just physical states but represent spiritual conditions and eternal destinies in the wisdom literature of the Bible.
Teaching Points
The Path of RighteousnessGenuine righteousness is not just about outward actions but involves a heart aligned with God's will. It leads to a fulfilling and eternal life.
Consequences of EvilPursuing evil may offer temporary pleasure but ultimately leads to spiritual and sometimes physical death. This serves as a warning to evaluate our choices and their long-term impacts.
Wisdom in Decision-MakingProverbs encourages us to seek wisdom in our daily decisions, understanding that our choices have spiritual consequences.
Eternal PerspectiveThis verse reminds us to live with an eternal perspective, valuing righteousness as it aligns with God's eternal kingdom.
Role of Jesus in RighteousnessAs Christians, we understand that true righteousness is found in Christ. Our pursuit of righteousness is empowered by His Spirit within us.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Proverbs 11:19?
2.How does Proverbs 11:19 encourage pursuing righteousness in daily life choices?
3.What are the consequences of "pursuing evil" according to Proverbs 11:19?
4.How does Proverbs 11:19 connect with Jesus' teachings on righteousness?
5.What practical steps can you take to "attain life" through righteousness?
6.How can Proverbs 11:19 guide your decision-making in challenging situations?
7.How does Proverbs 11:19 define the path to life and righteousness?
8.What historical context influenced the writing of Proverbs 11:19?
9.How does Proverbs 11:19 challenge modern views on morality and ethics?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 11?
11.What signifies the wide gate leading to destruction?
12.Why did God command violence in the Old Testament?
13.How does the violent response sanctioned in Esther 8:11 align with broader Old Testament teachings on justice and mercy?
14.Proverbs 16:31 declares that gray hair, or old age, is a crown of glory for the righteous--how do we reconcile this with the early deaths of many who lead faithful and moral lives?What Does Proverbs 11:19 Mean
Genuine righteousness• “Genuine righteousness” speaks of a life that is truly aligned with God’s standards, not just outward morality.
•Proverbs 10:16 notes, “The wage of the righteous leads to life”, reinforcing that righteous conduct reflects a heart changed by God.
•Isaiah 32:17 adds, “The work of righteousness will be peace, and the service of righteousness, quiet confidence forever”, showing the inward stability that marks genuine righteousness.
Leads to life• “Leads to life” promises more than long days on earth; it points to fullness of life now and eternal life with God.
•Proverbs 12:28 declares, “In the path of righteousness is life, and there is no death along that pathway”.
• Jesus affirmed this same principle inJohn 10:10: “I have come that they may have life, and have it in all its fullness”.
•Romans 6:22 ties it all together: “Now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the fruit you reap leads to holiness, and the outcome is eternal life”.
The pursuit of evil• The phrase pictures someone chasing after sin as if it were treasure.
•Proverbs 1:18-19 warns that those who “pursue ill–gotten gain” set an ambush for their own lives.
•Psalm 36:4 describes such a person: “Even on his bed he plots wickedness; he sets himself on a path that is not good”.
• Evil isn’t passive; it demands intentional strides away from God.
Brings death• Scripture links sin and death inseparably.Romans 6:23 states it plainly: “For the wages of sin is death”.
•Proverbs 14:12 echoes, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death”.
•Galatians 6:8 warns, “The one who sows to please his flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction”.
• Death here includes spiritual deadness now—separation from God’s fellowship—and ultimate eternal separation if unrepentant.
summaryProverbs 11:19 draws a sharp, unmissable line: authentic, God-given righteousness ushers us into vibrant, everlasting life, while an active chase after sin ushers in certain death. Every choice steers us toward one outcome or the other. Scripture’s consistent testimony invites us to cling to righteousness through faith, walking the path that truly lives.
(19)
As righteousness tendeth to life.--Rather,
genuine righteousness tendeth to life.Verse 19. - This verse is not to be connected with the preceding, as in the margin of the Revised Version, "so righteousness," etc., each couplet in these chapters being independent, the connection, such as it is, being maintained by the use of catchwords, such as "righteous," "wicked," "upright," etc.
As righteousness tendeth to life. The various uses of the first word
כֵן (
ken) have led to different renderings. The Authorized Version takes it for "as;" the Revised Version as an adjective:
He that is steadfastin righteousness. It is, perhaps, better, with Nowack, to regard it as an adverb: "He who is honestly, strictly, of righteousness, is to life." The meaning is plain: real, genuine righteousness hath the promise of this life and of that which is to come (
1 Timothy 4:8). The LXX., reading
בֵן (
ben), translate, "A righteous son is born for life."
He that pursueth evil (
Proverbs 13:21); Septuagint, "the persecution of the impious,"
i.e. that which an impious man inflicts. But the Authorized Version is correct, and the clause means that he who practises evil brings ruin eventually on himself - a warning trite, but unheeded (comp.
Proverbs 1:18).
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
Genuineכֵּן־(kên-)Adjective - masculine singular
Strong's 3651:So -- thusrighteousnessצְדָקָ֥ה(ṣə·ḏā·qāh)Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 6666:Rightness, subjectively, objectivelyleads to life,לְחַיִּ֑ים(lə·ḥay·yîm)Preposition-l | Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 2416:Alive, raw, fresh, strong, lifebut the pursuitוּמְרַדֵּ֖ף(ū·mə·rad·dêp̄)Conjunctive waw | Verb - Piel - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 7291:To pursue, chase, persecuteof evilרָעָ֣ה(rā·‘āh)Adjective - feminine singular
Strong's 7451:Bad, evilbrings death.לְמוֹתֽוֹ׃(lə·mō·w·ṯōw)Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 4194:Death, the dead, their place, state, pestilence, ruin
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OT Poetry: Proverbs 11:19 He who is truly righteous gets life (Prov. Pro Pr) 
