King James Version
Proverbs 4:16 in the King James Version says “For they sleep not, except they have done mischief; and their sleep is taken away, unless they cause some to fall .” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“For they sleep not, except they have done mischief; and their sleep is taken away, unless they cause some to fall .”
Proverbs 4:16 · KJV
Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men.
Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away.
For they sleep not, except they have done mischief; and their sleep is taken away, unless they cause some to fall .
For they eat the bread of wickedness, and drink the wine of violence.
But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.
KJV Study — Public Domain
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
“For they sleep”
H3462properly, to be slack or languid, i.e., (by implication) sleep (figuratively, to die); also to grow old, stale or inveterate
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
“not except they have done mischief”
H7489properly, to spoil (literally, by breaking to pieces); figuratively, to make (or be) good for nothing, i.e., bad (physically, socially or morally)
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
“unless they cause some to fall”
H3782to totter or waver (through weakness of the legs, especially the ankle); by implication, to falter, stumble, faint or fall
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.
Proverbs 4:16 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Proverbs 4:16 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge