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Book of Proverbs - Chapter 12 - Verse 12

12:12
The wicked desireth the net of evil men: but the root of the righteous yieldeth fruit.

Meaning

Within this verse from the Book of Proverbs, we see a stark contrast between the desires of the wicked and the outcomes of the righteous. The wicked are depicted as yearning for the traps and snares set by evil men, symbolizing their propensity towards sinful actions and their ultimate downfall. On the other hand, the root of the righteous is portrayed as yielding fruit, representing the positive and fruitful outcomes of living a righteous and virtuous life. The imagery of roots and fruit underscores the idea that one's actions and intentions ultimately determine the outcomes they experience. Therefore, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of cultivating righteousness in order to bear the fruits of goodness and prosperity in our lives. It also highlights the consequences of following the path of wickedness and falling into the traps set by those who seek to do harm. Overall, this verse encapsulates the timeless wisdom found in the Book of Proverbs, guiding readers towards a life of righteousness and virtue.

Theological Overview

One way to interpret this verse theologically is to consider the contrast between the desires of the wicked and the righteousness of the righteous. The wicked are portrayed as desiring the net of evil men, which can be understood as a desire for deceit, deception, and wrongdoing. This indicates a preference for sinful actions and immoral behavior. In contrast, the root of the righteous is said to yield fruit, symbolizing the positive outcomes and blessings that come from a life lived in alignment with God's will. The choice of words used in this verse highlights the importance of the inner motivations and desires of individuals. The wicked are focused on negative and harmful pursuits, while the righteous are rooted in the goodness that produces fruit in their lives. This verse serves as a reminder of the significance of our inner intentions and how they can ultimately influence the outcomes and fruits of our lives.

American Standard Version

The wicked desireth the net of evil men; But the root of the righteous yieldeth [fruit] .
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