Proverbs 28:4 net — Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but those who keep the law contend with them.

NET Bible

"Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but those who keep the law contend with them."

— Proverbs 28:4, NET Bible

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Proverbs 28:4 in Other Translations

6 versions All translations

Proverbs 28 — Context

1

Α wicked person fled, though no one was pursuing, but the righteous person can be as confident as a lion.

2

When a country is rebellious it has many princes, but by someone who is discerning and knowledgeable order is maintained.

3

A poor person who oppresses the weak is like a driving rain without food.

4

Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but those who keep the law contend with them.

5

Evil people do not understand justice, but those who seek the LORD understand it all.

6

A poor person who walks in his integrity is better than one who is perverse in his ways even though he is rich.

7

The one who keeps the law is a discerning child, but a companion of gluttons brings shame to his parents.

Proverbs 28:4 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Proverbs 28:4 say?
Proverbs 28:4 in the NET Bible reads: “Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but those who keep the law contend with them.”
Where is Proverbs 28:4 in the Bible?
Proverbs 28:4 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Proverbs, chapter 28, verse 4.
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 28:4.
What translation should I read Proverbs 28:4 in?
Proverbs 28:4 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 28:4?
Proverbs 28:4 reads (NET): “Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but those who keep the law contend with them.” 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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