Proverbs 16:17 asv — The highway of the upright is to depart from evil: He that keepeth his way preserveth his soul.

American Standard Version

"The highway of the upright is to depart from evil: He that keepeth his way preserveth his soul. "

— Proverbs 16:17, American Standard Version

Read in Another Translation

5 of 21 translations

Proverbs 16:17 in Other Translations

6 versions All translations

Proverbs 16 — Context

14

The wrath of a king isasmessengers of death; But a wise man will pacify it.

15

In the light of the king’s countenance is life; And his favor is as a cloud of the latter rain.

16

How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! Yea, to get understanding is rather to be chosen than silver.

17

The highway of the upright is to depart from evil: He that keepeth his way preserveth his soul.

18

Pridegoethbefore destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall.

19

Better it is to be of a lowly spirit with the poor, Than to divide the spoil with the proud.

20

He that giveth heed unto the word shall find good; And whoso trusteth in Jehovah, happy is he.

Proverbs 16:17 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Proverbs 16:17 say?
Proverbs 16:17 in the American Standard Version reads: “The highway of the upright is to depart from evil: He that keepeth his way preserveth his soul. ”
Where is Proverbs 16:17 in the Bible?
Proverbs 16:17 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Proverbs, chapter 16, verse 17.
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 16:17.
What translation should I read Proverbs 16:17 in?
Proverbs 16:17 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 16:17?
Proverbs 16:17 reads (ASV): “The highway of the upright is to depart from evil: He that keepeth his way preserveth his soul. ” 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.
GodsGoodBook logo

GodsGoodBook

Making God's Word accessible to everyone

Experience the Bible like never before with multiple translations, powerful search tools, and features to make God's Word personal to you. Completely free, forever.

Features

15+ Bible Translations
Powerful Search Tools
Highlight & Annotate
Share Verses
100% Free Forever
© 2025 GodsGoodBookVersion 1.8.2