What is the meaning of Proverbs 1:11?

If they say,

• Proverbs 1:10 sets the stage: “My son, if sinners entice you, do not yield.” Temptation begins with words, just as the serpent’s speech did in Genesis 3:1.

• Evil counsel aims for the ear first (Psalm 1:1; Proverbs 4:14-15).

• The “if” signals choice—God always provides a way out (1 Corinthians 10:13).

• Every enticing voice that contradicts God’s Word is to be met with immediate refusal (James 3:8; 1 John 4:1).

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Come along,

• Wickedness recruits; it rarely sins alone (Romans 1:32).

• The invitation sounds friendly, echoing Absalom’s call before murdering Amnon (2 Samuel 13:26-29).

• Saying “yes” to the first step means leaving the path of life (Proverbs 4:14; Amos 3:3).

• Psalm 26:4-5 urges separation from evildoers; companionship shapes character (1 Corinthians 15:33).

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let us lie in wait for blood,

• The plan is calculated, like Cain’s premeditated act against Abel (Genesis 4:8).

• Psalm 10:8-9 pictures the wicked lurking in ambush; the law forbids murder outright (Exodus 20:13; Numbers 35:33).

• Hatred itself is murder in seed form (Matthew 5:21-22; 1 John 3:15).

• Such plotting invites God’s swift justice (Psalm 37:14-15; Proverbs 11:19).

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let us ambush the innocent without cause,

• Targeting the “innocent” magnifies the injustice; God hates “hands that shed innocent blood” (Proverbs 6:17).

• “Without cause” removes every excuse, paralleling David’s complaint in Psalm 35:19 and fulfilled in Christ (John 15:25).

• God defends the oppressed (Isaiah 10:1-3; Psalm 37:12-13).

• The righteous must reject schemes that harm the vulnerable and instead pursue mercy and justice (Micah 6:8; Romans 12:17-21).

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summary

Proverbs 1:11 unveils the seductive voice of violent companions. Their seemingly friendly words mask premeditated bloodshed against the blameless. Wisdom refuses the invitation at the first syllable, recognizing that joining such people violates God’s clear command, severs fellowship with Him, and invites judgment. Walking in righteousness means turning away from their path and remaining steadfast in the fear of the Lord.