King James Version

What Does Proverbs 18:1 Mean?

Proverbs 18:1 in the King James Version says “Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom. Through: or, He that separate...” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 18 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom. Through: or, He that separateth himself seeketh according to his desire, and intermeddleth in every business”

Proverbs 18:1 · KJV

Wisdom

Context

1

Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom. Through: or, He that separateth himself seeketh according to his desire, and intermeddleth in every business

2

A fool hath no delight in understanding, but that his heart may discover itself.

3

When the wicked cometh, then cometh also contempt, and with ignominy reproach.

Read Proverbs 18 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Isolating oneself to pursue selfish desires demonstrates pride's antisocial tendency. The one who separates rages against sound wisdom, rejecting the counsel and accountability of community. This warns against individualism that spurns the body of Christ's mutual edification.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient society was corporate and interdependent—voluntary isolation was rare and viewed suspiciously. God designed humans for community, making hermit-like separation contrary to creation order.

Reflection Questions

  1. Where do you isolate yourself to avoid accountability or pursue selfish desires?
  2. How can you more fully engage in Christian community for mutual growth?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
לְֽ֭תַאֲוָה1 of 6

“Through desire”

H8378

a longing; by implication, a delight (subjectively, satisfaction, objectively, a charm)

יְבַקֵּ֣שׁ2 of 6

“himself seeketh”

H1245

to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after

נִפְרָ֑ד3 of 6

“a man having separated”

H6504

to break through, i.e., spread or separate (oneself)

בְּכָל4 of 6
H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

תּ֝וּשִׁיָּ֗ה5 of 6

“with all wisdom”

H8454

support or (by implication) ability, i.e., (direct) help, (in purpose) an undertaking, (intellectual) understanding

יִתְגַּלָּֽע׃6 of 6

“and intermeddleth”

H1566

to be obstinate

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 18:1 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 18:1 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Ephesians 5:15-17Proverbs 2:1-6Proverbs 20:3Jeremiah 15:17Proverbs 24:21Jude 1:19

Test Your Knowledge

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