KJV ORIGINAL
A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
A peaceful heart gives life to the whole body, but jealousy rots you from the inside out.
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
This verse is saying that inner peace brings health and vitality, while jealousy destroys you physically and spiritually.
📚 Historical Context
This proverb comes from Solomon's collection of wise sayings, written around 950 BC when Israel was at its peak of prosperity and wisdom. Ancient Hebrew culture understood the close connection between emotional and physical health, recognizing that inner turmoil could manifest as physical illness. The imagery of bones rotting would have been particularly vivid to people familiar with caring for livestock and understanding decay.
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