Old Testament
Proverbs 10:30
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The righteous will never be removed, but the wicked will not inhabit the earth.
Compare translations
The righteous shall never be removed: but the wicked shall not inhabit the earth.
What Proverbs 10:30 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse contrasts the fate of the righteous and the wicked. The righteous, those who live according to God's ways, are promised stability and security; they will not be uprooted or removed from their place. In contrast, the wicked, who act against God's principles, will ultimately face judgment and will not be able to dwell on the earth. This highlights the idea that righteousness leads to lasting peace and presence, while wickedness leads to destruction and loss. The verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of our choices and the importance of living a life aligned with God's will. It reassures believers that their faithfulness will be rewarded, while those who choose to live in opposition to God's ways will face inevitable consequences. This dichotomy encourages individuals to strive for righteousness and to trust in God's justice.
How to apply Proverbs 10:30 to your life
To apply this verse, focus on living a life that reflects righteousness through your actions and decisions. Trust that God will provide stability and security in your life as you align with His will. Avoid paths that lead to wickedness, knowing they result in negative consequences.
Curated for this public verse page. Proverbs Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Proverbs 10:30
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Proverbs 10:30
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Proverbs
- Author
- Primarily Solomon, with other contributors
- Written
- Around 950-700 BC
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- Young people and all seeking wisdom
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Proverbs 10:30 mean?
Proverbs 10:30 contrasts the stability of the righteous with the fate of the wicked. It means that those who live according to God's ways will have a secure and lasting presence, while those who act against God's principles will ultimately face judgment and be removed.
What is the meaning of righteousness in Proverbs 10:30?
In Proverbs 10:30, righteousness refers to living in accordance with God's will and moral standards. The verse emphasizes that those who embody righteousness will experience stability and security in their lives.
How does Proverbs 10:30 apply to daily life?
Proverbs 10:30 encourages individuals to pursue righteousness in their daily actions and decisions. By aligning with God's will, one can trust in the stability and security that comes from living a faithful life.
What are the consequences mentioned in Proverbs 10:30?
The consequences in Proverbs 10:30 indicate that the wicked will face judgment and will not be able to inhabit the earth, while the righteous will enjoy lasting peace and security.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.