Proverbs 6:18
Proverbs 6:18 in Multiple Translations
a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that run swiftly to evil,
An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief,
A heart that deviseth wicked purposes, Feet that are swift in running to mischief,
A heart full of evil designs, feet which are quick in running after sin;
a mind that plots evil schemes, feet that hurriedly run to do wrong,
An heart that imagineth wicked enterprises, feete that be swift in running to mischiefe,
A heart devising thoughts of vanity — Feet hasting to run to evil —
a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are swift in running to mischief,
A heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that are swift in running to mischief,
A heart that deviseth wicked plots, feet that are swift to run into mischief,
people who plan to do evil deeds; people [SYN] who run quickly to do wrong things;
Berean Amplified Bible — Proverbs 6:18
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Proverbs 6:18 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
לֵ֗ב
חֹ֭רֵשׁ
מַחְשְׁב֣וֹת
אָ֑וֶן
רַגְלַ֥יִם
מְ֝מַהֲר֗וֹת
לָ/ר֥וּץ
לָֽ/רָעָה
לֵ֗ב
lêb
H3820
heart
N-ms
חֹ֭רֵשׁ
chârash
H2790
to plow/plot
V-Qal
מַחְשְׁב֣וֹת
machăshâbâh
H4284
plot
N-fp
אָ֑וֶן
ʼâven
H205
evil
N-ms
רַגְלַ֥יִם
regel
H7272
foot
N-fd
מְ֝מַהֲר֗וֹת
mâhar
H4116
to hasten
V-Piel
לָ/ר֥וּץ
rûwts
H7323
to run
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
לָֽ/רָעָה
raʻ
H7451
bad
Prep | N-fs
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Proverbs 6:18
לֵ֗ב
lêb
H3820
"heart"
N-ms
Leb refers to the heart, but also represents feelings, will, and intellect in the Bible. It is used figuratively to describe the center of something, and is often translated as heart or mind. Leb is a complex concept that encompasses emotions and thoughts.
Definition: 1) inner man, mind, will, heart, understanding 1a) inner part, midst 1a1) midst (of things) 1a2) heart (of man) 1a3) soul, heart (of man) 1a4) mind, knowledge, thinking, reflection, memory 1a5) inclination, resolution, determination (of will) 1a6) conscience 1a7) heart (of moral character) 1a8) as seat of appetites 1a9) as seat of emotions and passions 1a10) as seat of courage
Usage: Occurs in 552 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] care for, comfortably, consent, [idiom] considered, courag(-eous), friend(-ly), ((broken-), (hard-), (merry-), (stiff-), (stout-), double) heart(-ed), [idiom] heed, [idiom] I, kindly, midst, mind(-ed), [idiom] regard(-ed), [idiom] themselves, [idiom] unawares, understanding, [idiom] well, willingly, wisdom. See also: Genesis 6:5; 2 Samuel 13:33; Psalms 4:8.
חֹ֭רֵשׁ
chârash
H2790
"to plow/plot"
V-Qal
This verb can mean to be quiet or silent, but also to scratch or engrave, like a farmer plowing a field. It is used in various contexts, including being silent or deaf. The KJV translates it in different ways, including 'cease' or 'hold peace'.
Definition: 1) to cut in, plough, engrave, devise 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to cut in, engrave 1a2) to plough 1a3) to devise 1b) (Niphal) to be ploughed 1c) (Hiphil) to plot evil
Usage: Occurs in 65 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] altogether, cease, conceal, be deaf, devise, ear, graven, imagine, leave off speaking, hold peace, plow(-er, man), be quiet, rest, practise secretly, keep silence, be silent, speak not a word, be still, hold tongue, worker. See also: Genesis 24:21; Psalms 28:1; Psalms 32:3.
מַחְשְׁב֣וֹת
machăshâbâh
H4284
"plot"
N-fp
In the Bible, this word refers to a plan, device, or invention, which can be either good or bad. It appears in places like 2 Chronicles 2:11 and Esther 8:3, where it is used to describe clever ideas or schemes. The word is associated with creativity and problem-solving.
Definition: 1) thought, device 1a) thought 1b) device, plan, purpose 1c) invention
Usage: Occurs in 52 OT verses. KJV: cunning (work), curious work, device(-sed), imagination, invented, means, purpose, thought. See also: Genesis 6:5; Proverbs 19:21; Psalms 33:10.
אָ֑וֶן
ʼâven
H205
"evil"
N-ms
This word refers to evil, wickedness, or trouble, often describing idolatry or iniquity, and is used in various KJV translations to convey a sense of wrongdoing.
Definition: 1) trouble, wickedness, sorrow 1a) trouble, sorrow 1b) idolatry 1c) trouble of iniquity, wickedness Also means: a.ven (אָ֫וֶן ": trouble" H0205H)
Usage: Occurs in 79 OT verses. KJV: affliction, evil, false, idol, iniquity, mischief, mourners(-ing), naught, sorrow, unjust, unrighteous, vain, vanity, wicked(-ness). Compare H369 (אַיִן). See also: Numbers 23:21; Psalms 94:23; Psalms 5:6.
רַגְלַ֥יִם
regel
H7272
"foot"
N-fd
This word also means a foot, like when God says he will tread on the wicked in Malachi 4:3. It's used to describe human and animal feet, as well as the base of objects like tables or idols.
Definition: 1) foot 1a) foot, leg 1b) of God (anthropomorphic) 1c) of seraphim, cherubim, idols, animals, table 1d) according to the pace of (with prep) 1e) three times (feet, paces) Aramaic equivalent: re.gal (רְגַל "foot" H7271)
Usage: Occurs in 232 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] be able to endure, [idiom] according as, [idiom] after, [idiom] coming, [idiom] follow, (broken-)foot(-ed, -stool), [idiom] great toe, [idiom] haunt, [idiom] journey, leg, [phrase] piss, [phrase] possession, time. See also: Genesis 8:9; 2 Samuel 22:39; Psalms 8:7.
מְ֝מַהֲר֗וֹת
mâhar
H4116
"to hasten"
V-Piel
This word means to hurry or do something quickly, like when someone is in a rush. It can also mean to buy something by paying a price. The Bible uses it in Genesis.
Definition: 1)(Qal) to hasten 1a) (Niphal) to be hurried, be anxious 1a) hasty, precipitate, impetuous 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to hasten, make haste 1b2) hasten (used as adverb with another verb) 1b3) to hasten, prepare quickly, do quickly, bring quickly
Usage: Occurs in 60 OT verses. KJV: be carried headlong, fearful, (cause to make, in, make) haste(-n, -ily), (be) hasty, (fetch, make ready) [idiom] quickly, rash, [idiom] shortly, (be so) [idiom] soon, make speed, [idiom] speedily, [idiom] straightway, [idiom] suddenly, swift. See also: Genesis 18:6; 1 Samuel 28:24; Psalms 16:4.
לָ/ר֥וּץ
rûwts
H7323
"to run"
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
To run or rush, often used to describe someone moving quickly, as seen in the story of the runners in Jeremiah 51:31. This verb appears in various forms, including running swiftly or darting. It is used to convey a sense of urgency or haste.
Definition: : run/runner/messenger 1) to run 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to run 1a2) runners (participle as subst) 1b) (Polel) to run swiftly, dart 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to bring or move quickly, hurry 1c2) to drive away from, cause to run away
Usage: Occurs in 92 OT verses. KJV: break down, divide speedily, footman, guard, bring hastily, (make) run (away, through), post. See also: Genesis 18:2; 2 Kings 11:6; Psalms 18:30.
לָֽ/רָעָה
raʻ
H7451
"bad"
Prep | N-fs
Ra means bad or evil, referring to moral or natural harm. It describes adversity, affliction, or distress, and is often used to convey a sense of misery or injury.
Definition: : harmful adj 1) bad, evil 1a) bad, disagreeable, malignant 1b) bad, unpleasant, evil (giving pain, unhappiness, misery) 1c) evil, displeasing 1d) bad (of its kind-land, water, etc) 1e) bad (of value) 1f) worse than, worst (comparison) 1g) sad, unhappy 1h) evil (hurtful) 1i) bad, unkind (vicious in disposition) 1j) bad, evil, wicked (ethically) 1j1) in general, of persons, of thoughts 1j2) deeds, actions
Usage: Occurs in 623 OT verses. KJV: adversity, affliction, bad, calamity, [phrase] displease(-ure), distress, evil((-favouredness), man, thing), [phrase] exceedingly, [idiom] great, grief(-vous), harm, heavy, hurt(-ful), ill (favoured), [phrase] mark, mischief(-vous), misery, naught(-ty), noisome, [phrase] not please, sad(-ly), sore, sorrow, trouble, vex, wicked(-ly, -ness, one), worse(-st), wretchedness, wrong. (Incl. feminine raaah; as adjective or noun.). See also: Genesis 2:9; Judges 9:57; 2 Kings 21:6.
Study Notes — Proverbs 6:18
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Proverbs 6:18 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 6:18
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 6:18
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 6:18
- Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 6:18
- Ellicott's Commentary on Proverbs 6:18
- Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 6:18
- Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 6:18
- Sermons on Proverbs 6:18
Context — Warnings against Foolishness
16There are six things that the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to Him:
17haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood,
18a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that run swiftly to evil,
19a false witness who gives false testimony, and one who stirs up discord among brothers. 20My son, keep your father’s commandment, and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Genesis 6:5 | Then the LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great upon the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was altogether evil all the time. |
| 2 | Proverbs 1:16 | For their feet run to evil, and they are swift to shed blood. |
| 3 | Romans 3:15 | “Their feet are swift to shed blood; |
| 4 | Jeremiah 4:14 | Wash the evil from your heart, O Jerusalem, so that you may be saved. How long will you harbor wicked thoughts within you? |
| 5 | Psalms 36:4 | Even on his bed he plots wickedness; he sets himself on a path that is not good; he fails to reject evil. |
| 6 | Zechariah 8:17 | do not plot evil in your hearts against your neighbor, and do not love to swear falsely, for I hate all these things,” declares the LORD. |
| 7 | Isaiah 59:7 | Their feet run to evil; they are swift to shed innocent blood. Their thoughts are sinful thoughts; ruin and destruction lie in their wake. |
| 8 | Proverbs 24:8 | He who plots evil will be called a schemer. |
| 9 | Micah 2:1 | Woe to those who devise iniquity and plot evil on their beds! At morning’s light they accomplish it because the power is in their hands. |
Proverbs 6:18 Summary
[This verse is talking about people who think up mean and hurtful plans, and then quickly act on them, like in the story of Joseph's brothers in Genesis 37:18-35. According to Proverbs 6:18, having a heart that devises wicked schemes and feet that run swiftly to evil is something that God hates. We should strive to have hearts that are kind and gentle, and feet that are quick to do good, as seen in Psalm 119:32, where we are called to run in the path of God's commands. By following God's commands and seeking to love and serve others, we can avoid devising wicked schemes and instead, bring joy and happiness to those around us.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to have a heart that devises wicked schemes?
According to Proverbs 6:18, having a heart that devises wicked schemes refers to a heart that intentionally plans and plots evil actions, as seen in the life of Cain in Genesis 4:8, where he plotted against his brother Abel.
How can I know if my feet are running swiftly to evil?
If you find yourself quickly and eagerly engaging in activities or behaviors that go against God's will, as described in Proverbs 6:18, it may be a sign that your heart is not aligned with His, as warned in Matthew 15:18-19, where Jesus teaches that evil actions come from an evil heart.
Is it possible to change my heart and stop devising wicked schemes?
Yes, according to Ezekiel 36:26, God promises to give us a new heart and put a new spirit within us, and as we seek to follow Him and obey His commands, He can transform our hearts and minds, as seen in Romans 12:2, where we are called to be transformed by the renewing of our minds.
How can I protect myself from people who devise wicked schemes?
According to Proverbs 22:24-25, we should not make friends with a hot-tempered person or associate with those who are quick to anger, and as warned in Proverbs 1:10-19, we should not be enticed by sinful desires or participate in evil plans, but instead, follow the wisdom of God as described in Psalm 37:3-4, where we are called to trust in Him and do good.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways I might be devising wicked schemes in my own heart, and how can I repent and seek God's forgiveness?
- How can I cultivate a heart that seeks after God's will and runs swiftly to righteousness, rather than evil?
- In what ways do I see the consequences of wicked schemes playing out in my own life or in the lives of those around me, and how can I learn from these experiences?
- What are some practical steps I can take to align my heart and actions with God's will, and to avoid running swiftly to evil?
Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 6:18
An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations,.... Or, "thoughts of wickedness" (e); which are framed and formed in the heart: and this being the source and fountain of all wickedness, is placed in the
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 6:18
An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 6:18
An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations; he whose practice it is to design and contrive wickedness. Feet that be swift in running to mischief; such as greedily and readily execute their wicked designs, without any restraint or delay.
Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 6:18
Proverbs 6:18 An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief,Ver. 18. An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations.] This is the old beldam, the mother of all the foregoing and following mischiefs, and is therefore fitly set in the midst of the seven, as having an influence into all. From the eyes, the wise man descends to the mouth; from the mouth to the hands; from the hands to the heart; from thence to the feet; and so takes the parts in order as they stand. But as for the heart, it transfuseth its venom into all the rest, and may say to them all, as the heart of Apollodorus the tyrant seemed to say to him, who dreamed one night that he was flayed by the Scythians, and boiled in a caldron, and that his heart spoke to him out of the kettle, Eγωσοιτουτωναιτια; It is I that have drawn thee to all this. Those in hell cry so, doubtless. Feet that be swift.] As if they should come too late. This is a foul abuse of the locomotive faculty given us by God for better purpose, that we should be "swift to hear," "run to and fro to increase knowledge," walk in the way that is called holy, "go from strength to strength," taking long strides towards heaven. Those, then, that walk in a contrary road, and make all possible haste to heap up sin upon sin, must needs be abominated and accursed of God.
Ellicott's Commentary on Proverbs 6:18
(18) Feet that be swift in running to mischief.—Who do not yield to temptation after a struggle against it, but give themselves up as willing slaves to their lusts. (l). Twelfth Discourse:—Against Adultery (Proverbs 6:20-35).
Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 6:18
Thirteenth Address. Chap. 6. Proverbs 6:12-19. The Worthless PersonThis short section might seem at first sight to break itself into two (Proverbs 6:12-19). But the note of character, “he soweth discord,” repeated in Proverbs 6:19 from Proverbs 6:14, helps to identify the worthless person as being the subject throughout, and a closer examination exhibits the connection. Would you recognise the worthless man? Here is his description, Proverbs 6:12-14. Would you understand his end? Here is his destiny, Proverbs 6:15. Would you know what God, the Judge of all, sees in him to hate and punish?
Here are the six, yea seven things that undo him, Proverbs 6:16-19. The connection is well worked out by Mr Horton, The Book of Proverbs, pp. 84–91.
Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 6:18
AGAINST THE OF SEVEN HATEFUL THINGS, Proverbs 6:16-19.Here the teacher seeks to guard his charge against personal vices, as he had before against associational ones.16-19. Six things… yea, seven, are specified.
Sermons on Proverbs 6:18
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Crusade 1957 by Billy Graham | This sermon emphasizes the importance of examining and surrendering our hearts to God. It delves into the sinful, wicked, rebellious, and hardened nature of the human heart, highli |
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(Spain) the Touch of God by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher reflects on his own spiritual journey and the realization that he had been giving half-hearted sermons. He shares how the Holy Spirit convicted him whi |
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Why Does the Holy Spirit Not Fill the Church by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of judgment and the need for it in order to save humanity. He explains that God saw the moral corruption that had spread througho |
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America's Last Call (Part 1 of 6) by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the current state of prosperity in America, with the stock market at an all-time high and unemployment at a 28-year low. However, he also ack |
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What Is Real Christianity? by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the preacher passionately delivers the gospel of Jesus Christ, urging the listeners to repent and turn to God. He emphasizes the fallen nature of humanity, using ex |
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The End Times (Luke 17-26) - Part 2 by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the speaker expresses his deep concern for the spiritual state of America and England. He references Matthew 11:20-21, where Jesus rebukes the cities of Khorazin an |
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(Hebrews - Part 33): By Faith Enoch by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the story of Enoch from the Bible and highlights five key lessons that can be learned from his life. The first lesson is that without faith, |