Old Testament
Proverbs 25:19
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Relying on an unfaithful person in a time of trouble is like having a broken tooth or a dislocated foot.
Compare translations
Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth, and a foot out of joint.
What Proverbs 25:19 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse from Proverbs highlights the dangers of placing trust in someone who is unreliable, especially during difficult times. Just as a broken tooth or a dislocated foot causes pain and hinders movement, relying on an unfaithful person can lead to disappointment and suffering. Trust is essential in relationships, and when that trust is broken, it can leave us feeling vulnerable and unsupported. The imagery of physical ailments emphasizes the discomfort and challenges that arise when we depend on someone who cannot be counted on. This proverb serves as a warning to choose our confidants wisely, ensuring they are trustworthy and dependable, particularly when we face hardships. In essence, it teaches us the importance of discernment in our relationships and the need for a solid support system during tough times.
How to apply Proverbs 25:19 to your life
In your life, evaluate the people you rely on during tough times. Ensure they are trustworthy and supportive. Surround yourself with individuals who have proven their faithfulness, as this will provide you with a solid foundation when challenges arise.
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 Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Joseph Is Born (Genesis 30:22–24)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Joseph, Jacob's son
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. 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.
Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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 25:19
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 25:19
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 25:19 mean?
Proverbs 25:19 compares trusting an unfaithful person in difficult times to having a broken tooth or a dislocated foot. It emphasizes that relying on someone who is unreliable can lead to pain and disappointment, highlighting the importance of choosing trustworthy individuals.
What is the meaning of 'unfaithful person' in Proverbs 25:19?
In Proverbs 25:19, an 'unfaithful person' refers to someone who cannot be relied upon, especially in times of trouble. This term underscores the risks of placing trust in individuals who have proven to be inconsistent or unreliable.
How can I apply Proverbs 25:19 in my life?
To apply Proverbs 25:19, assess the people you turn to for support during tough times. Ensure they are reliable and have demonstrated their trustworthiness, as this will help you build a strong support network.
What imagery is used in Proverbs 25:19?
Proverbs 25:19 uses the imagery of a broken tooth and a dislocated foot to illustrate the pain and hindrance caused by relying on an unfaithful person. These physical ailments symbolize the discomfort and challenges that arise from broken trust.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.