What is the meaning of Proverbs 11:10?

When the righteous thrive

“When the righteous thrive” (Proverbs 11:10a) pictures godly men and women gaining influence and success.

• Righteous leaders govern with justice, protecting the vulnerable (2 Samuel 23:3–4; Proverbs 29:4).

• Their personal integrity restrains evil and promotes peace (Proverbs 14:34; Romans 14:17).

• God often blesses an entire community for the sake of the upright within it (Genesis 39:5; Jeremiah 29:7).

A thriving righteous population is a visible sign of God’s favor and order at work.

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the city rejoices

“When the righteous thrive, the city rejoices” (Proverbs 11:10a). The whole community feels the benefit.

• Justice replaces oppression (Proverbs 29:2).

• Resources are shared fairly (Acts 4:34–35).

• Everyday life becomes safer and more hopeful (1 Kings 4:20; Acts 8:8).

Joy arises not merely from prosperity but from the security and fairness that righteousness brings.

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and when the wicked perish

“…and when the wicked perish” (Proverbs 11:10b). Wicked people abuse power, so their removal is mercy for many.

• God judges unrepentant evil (Psalm 73:18–19; Psalm 104:35).

• Their downfall lifts heavy burdens from the innocent (Proverbs 28:28; Esther 7:9–10).

• The moment reminds onlookers that sin’s wages are death (Romans 6:23), urging them toward repentance.

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there are shouts of joy

“…there are shouts of joy” (Proverbs 11:10b). Celebration breaks out because oppression ends.

• Israel sang when Pharaoh’s army drowned (Exodus 15:1).

• Judah rejoiced after God overthrew invaders (2 Chronicles 20:27).

• Heaven itself praises God for judging Babylon’s wickedness (Revelation 19:1–3).

Joy here is not vindictiveness but relief and gratitude for God’s righteous judgment and renewed peace.

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summary

Proverbs 11:10 teaches that communities flourish under righteous influence and suffer under wicked rule. When the upright prosper, everyone benefits and rejoices. When God removes the wicked, relief and celebration follow. The verse calls believers to live righteously for the good of all and to trust God’s just dealings with evil.