Proverbs 11:23 kjv — The desire of the righteous is only good: but the expectation of the wicked is wrath.

King James Version

"The desire of the righteous is only good: but the expectation of the wicked is wrath."

— Proverbs 11:23, King James Version

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Proverbs 11:23 in Other Translations

6 versions All translations

Proverbs 11 — Context

20

They that are of a froward heart are abomination to the Lord: but such as are upright in their way are his delight.

21

Though hand join in hand, the wicked shall not be unpunished: but the seed of the righteous shall be delivered.

22

As a jewel of gold in a swine’s snout, so is a fair woman which is without discretion.

23

The desire of the righteous is only good: but the expectation of the wicked is wrath.

24

There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty.

25

The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.

26

He that withholdeth corn, the people shall curse him: but blessing shall be upon the head of him that selleth it.

Proverbs 11:23 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Proverbs 11:23 say?
Proverbs 11:23 in the King James Version reads: “The desire of the righteous is only good: but the expectation of the wicked is wrath.”
Where is Proverbs 11:23 in the Bible?
Proverbs 11:23 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Proverbs, chapter 11, verse 23.
Who wrote Proverbs?
Proverbs is traditionally attributed to Solomon (primarily), with sections by Agur and Lemuel. It was written c. 970–700 BC.
What is the book of Proverbs about?
Proverbs is practical wisdom for everyday life — short, vivid sayings on speech, work, money, friendship, sex, parenting, and the fear of the LORD. It teaches that wisdom is not mere cleverness but a way of walking with God in a complicated world.
What are the major themes of Proverbs?
Proverbs explores themes including Wisdom, Folly, Fear of the LORD, Discipline, Speech, Diligence. These themes shape the meaning and context of Proverbs 11:23.
What translation should I read Proverbs 11:23 in?
Proverbs 11:23 is available on GodsGoodBook in the King James Version (KJV), American Standard Version (ASV), World English Bible (WEB), NET Bible, Young's Literal Translation, Darby Bible, Douay-Rheims Bible, and the Bible in Basic English. Each translation reflects different translation philosophies — use the translation picker on this page to compare them, or browse our full translations directory.
How can I memorize Proverbs 11:23?
Proverbs 11:23 reads (KJV): “The desire of the righteous is only good: but the expectation of the wicked is wrath.” Read it aloud, break it into short phrases, repeat each phrase three times before adding the next, then put the phrases together. Reading it in multiple translations (above) often helps the meaning settle.
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