Paragraph 24:1–2 Saying 19

In this saying, the author continues to address his readers as a father who advises his son. The first verse has two similar commands. The second verse tells the reason for following these commands.

24:1

Notice the parallel parts that are similar in meaning:

1a
Do not envy wicked men

1b
or desire their company ;

There is a natural progression from desiring the things that wicked people have to desiring their friendship. The teacher warns against both of these desires.

24:1a

Do not envy wicked men: This command implies that the young man should not strongly desire the possessions and pleasures that evil people often enjoy. Some other ways to translate this command are:

Don’t be envious of evil people (Good News Translation)
-or-
You should not be jealous of ⌊the prosperity of⌋ people who are wicked.

This command is almost identical in meaning to the first line of 23:17. That command has “Do not let your heart envy” instead of Do not envy. It also has “sinners” instead of wicked men.

24:1b

or desire their company: This line warns the young man to not become friends with wicked people. He should not want to associate with them. Some other ways to translate this line are:

and don’t try to make friends with them (Good News Translation)
-or-
or wish you were with them (God’s Word)
-or-
or desire their friendship (Revised English Bible)

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