Old Testament
Proverbs 11:10
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse highlights the connection between the moral state of individuals and the overall well-being of a community.
- Author
- Primarily Solomon, with other contributors
- Written
- Around 950-700 BC
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- Young people and all seeking wisdom
When it goes well with the righteous, the city rejoices, and when the wicked perish, there is shouting.
When it goeth well with the righteous, the city rejoiceth: and when the wicked perish, there is shouting.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights the connection between the moral state of individuals and the overall well-being of a community. When righteous people thrive, it brings joy and prosperity to the city, suggesting that their good actions positively influence society. Conversely, the downfall of wicked individuals leads to celebration, indicating that their absence is seen as a relief or a positive change. This reflects a broader principle that the moral choices of individuals can significantly impact the collective happiness and health of a community. The verse encourages a focus on righteousness, as it not only benefits the individual but also uplifts the entire society, fostering an environment where goodness prevails and evil is recognized and removed.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Proverbs 11:10 to your life
To apply this verse, strive to live righteously and positively influence those around you. Engage in actions that promote goodness and support your community. Celebrate the removal of harmful influences and encourage others to pursue righteousness for the benefit of all.
Curated for this public verse page. Proverbs Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Proverbs 11:10 mean?
Proverbs 11:10 means that when good people succeed, it brings happiness to the community, while the downfall of bad people is celebrated. It emphasizes how individual moral behavior affects the overall well-being of society.
What is the meaning of righteousness in Proverbs 11:10?
In Proverbs 11:10, righteousness refers to living a morally good life that positively influences others. The verse suggests that when righteous individuals thrive, their goodness contributes to the joy and prosperity of the entire city.
How does Proverbs 11:10 relate to community impact?
Proverbs 11:10 illustrates that the actions of individuals, whether good or bad, have a direct impact on the community. Righteousness leads to collective joy, while the removal of wickedness is seen as a positive change.
What can we learn from Proverbs 11:10?
From Proverbs 11:10, we learn that our moral choices matter. Living righteously not only benefits us but also uplifts those around us, fostering a healthier and happier community.

The Book of Proverbs
Proverbs 1: The Beginning of Knowledge
These are the proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel. They are given to know wisdom and instruction, to understand words of insight, and to receive instruction in wise behavior, justice, judgment, and fairness. They are written to give prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young. A wise person hears and increases learning, and a person of understanding gains wise counsel. The fear of the LORD is stated as the beginning of knowledge, while fools despise wisdom and instruction.
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