King James Version
Proverbs 4:19 in the King James Version says “The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble.” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble.”
Proverbs 4:19 · KJV
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.
The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble.
My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings.
Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“The way”
H1870a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
“they know”
H3045to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
“not at what they stumble”
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 4:19 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 4:19 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge