Be not thou envious against evil men, neither desire to be with them.
Don't be jealous of evil people, and don't want to hang around with them.
The writer is warning us not to envy wicked people or seek their company, even when they seem to be doing well.
📚 Historical Context
In the time of King Solomon, the Book of Proverbs was compiled as a collection of wise sayings to guide Israelites in moral and practical living, drawing from the wisdom tradition of ancient Near Eastern cultures. This verse specifically warns against envying those who prosper through evil deeds, reflecting the societal tensions in Israel where wickedness often appeared rewarding in the short term. It fits into the broader biblical narrative that contrasts the fleeting success of the wicked with the enduring blessings of the righteous.
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