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Book of Proverbs - Chapter 25 - Verse 26

25:26
A righteous man falling down before the wicked is as a troubled fountain, and a corrupt spring.

Meaning

In this verse, the comparison is made between a righteous man who falls down before the wicked and a troubled fountain or a corrupt spring. The imagery used here is powerful and conveys the idea that when a righteous person submits or compromises their beliefs and values in the face of wickedness, it is akin to a source of water that is muddied or polluted. Just as a troubled fountain or a corrupt spring cannot provide clean, refreshing water, a righteous individual who bows down to the wicked loses their integrity and moral purity. This verse serves as a cautionary tale, warning against the dangers of abandoning righteousness in the face of adversity or temptation. It emphasizes the importance of standing firm in one's convictions and remaining true to one's principles, even when faced with opposition or persecution.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Proverbs, the image of a righteous person bowing down before the wicked is likened to a troubled fountain and a corrupt spring. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the contrast between righteousness and wickedness. A righteous person, who is meant to stand firm in their beliefs and values, is shown as faltering when faced with the wicked. The troubled fountain and corrupt spring represent a disruption in the natural flow of goodness and purity. This verse serves as a cautionary reminder to believers to remain steadfast in their faith and resist the temptation to compromise their principles in the face of evil. The word studies of this verse emphasize the significance of righteousness and integrity in the face of adversity, highlighting the importance of maintaining moral purity and resisting the influence of wickedness.

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