Walk with those who are wise, and your life will be enriched; walk with those who ignore wisdom, and expect trouble.
In this verse, Solomon urges his audience toward the pursuit of godly association, teaching that “He who walks with wise men will be wise, But the companion of fools will suffer harm” (v.20). The first part of the proverb describes the natural outcome of surrounding oneself with righteousness and wisdom: those who spend time in the presence of wise individuals eventually begin to cultivate the same virtues. Wisdom in the Old Testament has a strong moral dimension, relating to obedience to God’s commandments and an understanding of His ways (Proverbs 1:7). By aligning our lives with the influence of believers who exhibit godly character, we receive instruction, encouragement, and even constructive correction, all of which help us grow in discernment and righteousness.
In contrast, the proverb also warns that “the companion of fools will suffer harm” (v.20). Ancient Hebrew culture emphasized communal identity, so associating with “fools”—those who scoff at wisdom and godly ways—led to a direction in life shaped by trouble and negative consequences. This principle connects to the broader biblical concept that “bad company corrupts good morals” (1 Corinthians 15:33). While championing godly fellowship, it also cautions against immersing ourselves in environments lacking spiritual wisdom, because such environments foster attitudes and behaviors that deviate from God’s path.
In the New Testament, Jesus Himself engaged with all kinds of people, including sinners, but He did so with the purpose of offering redemption (Luke 19:10). The difference lies in whether we immerse our hearts and decision-making in the influence of those who disregard God. Solomon’s teaching stands timeless: surrounding ourselves with people who fear the Lord nurtures a life that pleases Him, while ignoring that wisdom invites spiritual and practical harm.
Set to dark mode
Proverbs 13:20 meaning
In this verse, Solomon urges his audience toward the pursuit of godly association, teaching that “He who walks with wise men will be wise, But the companion of fools will suffer harm” (v.20). The first part of the proverb describes the natural outcome of surrounding oneself with righteousness and wisdom: those who spend time in the presence of wise individuals eventually begin to cultivate the same virtues. Wisdom in the Old Testament has a strong moral dimension, relating to obedience to God’s commandments and an understanding of His ways (Proverbs 1:7). By aligning our lives with the influence of believers who exhibit godly character, we receive instruction, encouragement, and even constructive correction, all of which help us grow in discernment and righteousness.
In contrast, the proverb also warns that “the companion of fools will suffer harm” (v.20). Ancient Hebrew culture emphasized communal identity, so associating with “fools”—those who scoff at wisdom and godly ways—led to a direction in life shaped by trouble and negative consequences. This principle connects to the broader biblical concept that “bad company corrupts good morals” (1 Corinthians 15:33). While championing godly fellowship, it also cautions against immersing ourselves in environments lacking spiritual wisdom, because such environments foster attitudes and behaviors that deviate from God’s path.
In the New Testament, Jesus Himself engaged with all kinds of people, including sinners, but He did so with the purpose of offering redemption (Luke 19:10). The difference lies in whether we immerse our hearts and decision-making in the influence of those who disregard God. Solomon’s teaching stands timeless: surrounding ourselves with people who fear the Lord nurtures a life that pleases Him, while ignoring that wisdom invites spiritual and practical harm.