Paragraph 24:8–9 Saying 23

This saying is about the bad reputation of a person who makes plans to harm others. This person does what is wrong and mocks other people, so they detest him.

24:8

He who plots evil will be called a schemer: This line means that a person who plans to do what is wrong will get the reputation of causing trouble.

He who plots evil: In Hebrew, this phrase refers to a person who habitually makes evil plans. It is implied that these plans will cause harm or trouble to other people.

will be called a schemer: The verb will be called is a passive. In some languages, it may be more natural to use an active verb. For example:

people will call him a troublemaker

Some other ways to translate this verse are:

If you are always planning evil, you will earn a reputation as a troublemaker. (Good News Translation)
-or-
A person who keeps thinking of ways to harm others will be called a schemer/plotter.

a schemer: In Hebrew, this is literally “master of plots” or “master of (evil) plans.” Some languages may have similar idioms to describe a person who repeatedly makes evil plans.

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