Proverbs 16:18 bbe — Pride goes before destruction, and a stiff spirit before a fall.

Bible in Basic English

"Pride goes before destruction, and a stiff spirit before a fall."

— Proverbs 16:18, Bible in Basic English

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Proverbs 16:18 in Other Translations

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Proverbs 16 — Context

15

In the light of the king's face there is life; and his approval is like a cloud of spring rain.

16

How much better it is to get wisdom than gold! and to get knowledge is more to be desired than silver.

17

The highway of the upright is to be turned away from evil: he who takes care of his way will keep his soul.

18

Pride goes before destruction, and a stiff spirit before a fall.

19

Better it is to have a gentle spirit with the poor, than to take part in the rewards of war with men of pride.

20

He who gives attention to the law of right will get good; and whoever puts his faith in the Lord is happy.

21

The wise-hearted will be named men of good sense: and by pleasing words learning is increased.

Proverbs 16:18 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Proverbs 16:18 say?
Proverbs 16:18 in the Bible in Basic English reads: “Pride goes before destruction, and a stiff spirit before a fall.”
Where is Proverbs 16:18 in the Bible?
Proverbs 16:18 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Proverbs, chapter 16, verse 18.
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 16:18.
What translation should I read Proverbs 16:18 in?
Proverbs 16:18 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 16:18?
Proverbs 16:18 reads (BBE): “Pride goes before destruction, and a stiff spirit before a fall.” 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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