181 An unfriendly person pursues selfish ends and against all sound judgment starts quarrels.

2 Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions.

3 When wickedness comes, so does contempt, and with shame comes reproach.

Other Translations of Proverbs 18:1-3

King James Version

181 Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom.

2 A fool hath no delight in understanding, but that his heart may discover itself.

3 When the wicked cometh, then cometh also contempt, and with ignominy reproach.

English Standard Version

181 Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire; he breaks out against all sound judgment.

2 A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion.

3 When wickedness comes, contempt comes also, and with dishonor comes disgrace.

The Message

181 Loners who care only for themselves spit on the common good.

2 Fools care nothing for thoughtful discourse; all they do is run off at the mouth.

3 When wickedness arrives, shame's not far behind; contempt for life is contemptible.

New King James Version

181 A man who isolates himself seeks his own desire; He rages against all wise judgment.

2 A fool has no delight in understanding, But in expressing his own heart.

3 When the wicked comes, contempt comes also; And with dishonor comes reproach.

New Living Translation

181 Unfriendly people care only about themselves; they lash out at common sense.

2 Fools have no interest in understanding; they only want to air their own opinions.

3 Doing wrong leads to disgrace, and scandalous behavior brings contempt.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 18:1-3

Commentary on Proverbs 18:1

(Read Proverbs 18:1)

If we would get knowledge and grace, we must try all methods of improving ourselves.

Commentary on Proverbs 18:2

(Read Proverbs 18:2)

Those make nothing to purpose, of learning or religion, whose only design is to have something to make a show with.

Commentary on Proverbs 18:3

(Read Proverbs 18:3)

As soon as sin entered, shame followed.