Proverbs 1:15Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

He didn't instruct to refrain from action, nor did he advise against leaving; rather, he suggested if one must leave, it would be wiser to avoid the situation, for danger looms as they seek to kill.

The words of the wicked found in Proverbs, “Let us put away the innocent without blame... We shall gather up every precious possession,” are sufficiently clear to be related to Christ and His Church without needing overly intricate interpretation. In a similar manner, the Lord Jesus attributes a parallel statement to the wrongdoers in a Gospel parable: “This is the heir; let us go and kill him and take possession of his inheritance” (Matt. 21:38).

God speaks through Solomon, instructing: My son, if wrongdoers entice you, do not consent. If they propose, ‘Join us, and we will plot against the innocent; we will take the life of the guiltless, devouring them as if from the grave.’ This passage foretells the anguish of the Lord.

The actions and conduct of the unjust reveal their manner of living. Specifically, the term “paths” refers to subtle routes, highlighting a characteristic of their behavior that showcases how they cunningly approach their unsuspecting victims. This reflects their covert schemes aimed at undermining the livelihoods and possessions of others. Is there anything more despicable and unethical than such conduct? Solomon advises the young man, who may be tempted by these evil individuals, to firmly resist their invitations to join them and to avoid their ways altogether. A similar caution is expressed in the psalm which states, “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners” (Psalm 1:1).