Proverbs 19:2 - Printer Friendly

ESV: Desire without knowledge is not good, and whoever makes haste with his feet misses his way.

NIV: Desire without knowledge is not good-- how much more will hasty feet miss the way!

NASB: Also it is not good for a person to be without knowledge, And one who hurries his footsteps errs.

CSB: Even zeal is not good without knowledge, and the one who acts hastily sins.

NLT: Enthusiasm without knowledge is no good; haste makes mistakes.

KJV: Also, that the soul be without knowledge, it is not good; and he that hasteth with his feet sinneth.

NKJV: Also it is not good for a soul to be without knowledge, And he sins who hastens with his feet.

Solomon insists that ambition without diligence or knowledge puts a person at risk. Without weighing all the facts of a matter (Proverbs 18:13, 17), an ambitious person may rush into a situation, only to discover severe consequences. Proverbs 14:12 explains, "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death." Wisdom and truth are often compared to a path (Proverbs 4:26; 15:10). Those who fail to watch their steps are inclined to become lost: to "miss their way." Other proverbs note that rash decision-making can lead to failure (Proverbs 21:5; 28:20).

The Bible counters "haste makes waste" decisions by exhorting believers to trust in the Lord for guidance. His wisdom promises clear direction (James 1:5; Proverbs 14:8, 15). Proverbs 3:5–6 states: "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." The same passage warns against relying on oneself when making decisions. It commands: "Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil" (Proverbs 3:7).

Proverbs 19:1–7 includes references that contrast the value of integrity with that of earthly wealth. To be moral is more honorable, and more valuable, than to be rich. At the same time, the world has an unfortunate habit of fawning over the rich, while sneering at the poor. True friends are those who remain loyal even when money is gone. Those who are immoral should expect consequences. Yet fools often blame God when they suffer for their own choices.

Several themes are associated with these statements. Among them are the idea that personal integrity is worth much more than earthly wealth or success. Solomon discusses the unfortunate habit of favoring the rich and dismissing the poor, while commending those who care for the unfortunate. Many references are made to the consequences of foolish behavior, including the shame and punishment such things can bring.

This series of proverbs is part of Solomon's writing on wisdom (Proverbs 10:1), a long chain continuing into chapter 22. As do other segments, this speaks on the harsh realities of poverty, the need for integrity, the dangers of laziness, the value of loving discipline, and the consequences of acting foolishly.

Proverbs is best understood in context with the books of Ecclesiastes and Job. In Proverbs, “wisdom” is given in short, simple, general terms. Ecclesiastes represents wisdom based on observation and experience. This often shows how the general principles of the book of Proverbs don’t apply in absolutely every circumstance. Job represents wisdom based on the experience of suffering and injustice. All three come to the conclusion that God does indeed know best, and the most sensible course of action is to follow His will.