King James Version

What Does Proverbs 15:6 Mean?

Proverbs 15:6 in the King James Version says “In the house of the righteous is much treasure: but in the revenues of the wicked is trouble.” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 15 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“In the house of the righteous is much treasure: but in the revenues of the wicked is trouble.”

Proverbs 15:6 · KJV

Context

4

A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit. A wholesome: Heb. The healing of the tongue

5

A fool despiseth his father's instruction: but he that regardeth reproof is prudent.

6

In the house of the righteous is much treasure: but in the revenues of the wicked is trouble.

7

The lips of the wise disperse knowledge: but the heart of the foolish doeth not so.

8

The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD: but the prayer of the upright is his delight.

Read Proverbs 15 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The 'house of the righteous' contains 'much treasure,' while 'in the revenues of the wicked is trouble.' This isn't prosperity gospel—the 'treasure' (Hebrew 'chocen') includes spiritual riches, peace, and God's blessing. The wicked's 'revenue' (Hebrew 'tebuah'—increase/income) brings 'trouble' (Hebrew 'akar'—disturbance/misery). Reformed theology distinguishes between true and false prosperity. Riches gained through wickedness cannot satisfy and often bring additional problems. Godliness with contentment is great gain (1 Timothy 6:6). True wealth is found in righteousness and God's presence.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

In agrarian Israel, 'treasure' could include stored grain, valuable goods, and livestock. However, Proverbs consistently teaches that ill-gotten wealth brings curses, while modest means with righteousness brings blessing.

Reflection Questions

  1. What constitutes true 'treasure' in your life—material wealth or spiritual riches?
  2. Have you seen how pursuing wealth through unrighteous means brings trouble rather than satisfaction?
  3. How does this verse challenge contemporary definitions of success and prosperity?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
בֵּ֣ית1 of 7

“In the house”

H1004

a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)

צַ֭דִּיק2 of 7

“of the righteous”

H6662

just

חֹ֣סֶן3 of 7

“treasure”

H2633

wealth

רָ֑ב4 of 7

“is much”

H7227

abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)

וּבִתְבוּאַ֖ת5 of 7

“but in the revenues”

H8393

income, i.e., produce (literally or figuratively)

רָשָׁ֣ע6 of 7

“of the wicked”

H7563

morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person

נֶעְכָּֽרֶת׃7 of 7

“is trouble”

H5916

properly, to roil water; figuratively, to disturb or affict

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Proverbs. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Proverbs 15:6 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Proverbs 15:6 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Proverbs 8:21Proverbs 10:22Proverbs 21:20Psalms 112:3Hebrews 11:26Proverbs 16:8

Test Your Knowledge

Proverbs 15 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterProverbs Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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