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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Proverbs 14:30 A tranquil heart is life to the body, but envy rots the bones.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/proverbs/14-30.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/10/20_Pro_14_30.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Proverbs 14:30 - The Wise Woman" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="A tranquil heart is life to the body, but envy rots the bones." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; 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jealousy is like cancer in the bones.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/proverbs/14.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh, but envy makes the bones rot.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/proverbs/14.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />A tranquil heart is life to the body, but envy rots the bones.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/proverbs/14.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />A sound heart <i>is</i> the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/proverbs/14.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />A sound heart <i>is</i> life to the body, But envy <i>is</i> rottenness to the bones.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/proverbs/14.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />A tranquil heart is life to the body, But jealousy is rottenness to the bones.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/proverbs/14.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />A tranquil heart is life to the body, But passion is rottenness to the bones.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/proverbs/14.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />A tranquil heart is life to the body, But passion is rottenness to the bones.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/proverbs/14.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />A tranquil heart is life to the body, But jealousy is rottenness to the bones.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/proverbs/14.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />A calm <i>and</i> peaceful <i>and</i> tranquil heart is life <i>and</i> health to the body, But passion <i>and</i> envy are like rottenness to the bones.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/proverbs/14.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />A tranquil heart is life to the body, but jealousy is rottenness to the bones.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/proverbs/14.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />A tranquil heart is life to the body, but jealousy is rottenness to the bones. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/proverbs/14.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />A tranquil heart is the life of the flesh; But envy is the rottenness of the bones.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/proverbs/14.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />It's healthy to be content, but envy can eat you up. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/proverbs/14.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy is the rottenness of the bones.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/proverbs/14.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />A tranquil heart makes for a healthy body, but jealousy is [like] bone cancer.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/proverbs/14.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />Peace of mind makes the body healthy, but jealousy is like a cancer. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/proverbs/14.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />A tranquil mind brings life to one's body, but jealousy causes one's bones to rot.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/proverbs/14.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />A tranquil heart is life to the body, but envy rots the bones.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/proverbs/14.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />A tranquil spirit revives the body, but envy is rottenness to the bones. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/proverbs/14.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />The life of the body is a heart at peace, but envy rots the bones.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/proverbs/14.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/proverbs/14.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />The life of the body is a heart at peace, but envy rots the bones. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/proverbs/14.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />A healed heart [is] life to the flesh, "" And rottenness to the bones [is] envy.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/proverbs/14.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> A healed heart is life to the flesh, And rottenness to the bones is envy.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/proverbs/14.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />A heart of healing, the life of the flesh: and jealousy the rottenness of the bones.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/proverbs/14.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />Soundness of heart is the life of the flesh: but envy is the rottenness of the bones. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/proverbs/14.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />The well-being of the heart is life for the flesh. But envy is decay for the bones.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/proverbs/14.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />A tranquil mind gives life to the body, but jealousy rots the bones. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/proverbs/14.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />A tranquil mind gives life to the flesh, but passion makes the bones rot.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/proverbs/14.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />He who cools down his anger is a healer of his own heart; but wrath is the rottenness of the bones.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/proverbs/14.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />He that cools his anger is a healer of his heart, and envy is the decay of the bones.<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/proverbs/14.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />A tranquil heart is the life of the flesh; But envy is the rottenness of the bones.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/proverbs/14.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />A meek-spirited man is a healer of the heart: but a sensitive heart is a corruption of the bones.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/proverbs/14-30.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kpUA5ZltBeQ?start=2756" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/proverbs/14.htm">The Wise Woman</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">29</span>A patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered man promotes folly. <span class="reftext">30</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/4832.htm" title="4832: mar·pê (N-ms) -- From rapha'; properly, curative, i.e. Literally a medicine, or a cure; figuratively deliverance, or placidity.">A tranquil</a> <a href="/hebrew/3820.htm" title="3820: lêḇ (N-msc) -- A form of lebab; the heart; also used very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the centre of anything.">heart</a> <a href="/hebrew/2416.htm" title="2416: ḥay·yê (N-mpc) -- Alive, raw, fresh, strong, life. From chayah; alive; hence, raw; fresh, strong; also life, whether literally or figuratively.">is life</a> <a href="/hebrew/1320.htm" title="1320: ḇə·śā·rîm (N-mp) -- Flesh. From basar; flesh; by extension, body, person; also The pudenda of a man.">to the body,</a> <a href="/hebrew/7068.htm" title="7068: qin·’āh (N-fs) -- Ardor, zeal, jealousy. From qana'; jealousy or envy.">but envy</a> <a href="/hebrew/7538.htm" title="7538: ū·rə·qaḇ (Conj-w:: N-msc) -- Rottenness, decay. From raqab; decay.">rots</a> <a href="/hebrew/6106.htm" title="6106: ‘ă·ṣā·mō·wṯ (N-fp) -- Bone, substance, self. From atsam; a bone; by extension, the body; figuratively, the substance, i.e. Selfsame.">the bones.</a> </span><span class="reftext">31</span>Whoever oppresses the poor taunts their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors Him.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/3-16.htm">James 3:16</a></span><br />For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/galatians/5-19.htm">Galatians 5:19-21</a></span><br />The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery; / idolatry and sorcery; hatred, discord, jealousy, and rage; rivalries, divisions, factions, / and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/3-3.htm">1 Corinthians 3:3</a></span><br />for you are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and dissension among you, are you not worldly? Are you not walking in the way of man?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/13-13.htm">Romans 13:13</a></span><br />Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_peter/2-1.htm">1 Peter 2:1</a></span><br />Rid yourselves, therefore, of all malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/philippians/4-7.htm">Philippians 4:7</a></span><br />And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/colossians/3-15.htm">Colossians 3:15</a></span><br />Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, for to this you were called as members of one body. And be thankful.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/5-9.htm">Matthew 5:9</a></span><br />Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/ephesians/4-31.htm">Ephesians 4:31-32</a></span><br />Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, outcry and slander, along with every form of malice. / Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_timothy/6-6.htm">1 Timothy 6:6</a></span><br />Of course, godliness with contentment is great gain.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/37-8.htm">Psalm 37:8</a></span><br />Refrain from anger and abandon wrath; do not fret—it can only bring harm.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/73-3.htm">Psalm 73:3</a></span><br />For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/ecclesiastes/4-4.htm">Ecclesiastes 4:4</a></span><br />I saw that all labor and success spring from a man’s envy of his neighbor. This too is futile and a pursuit of the wind.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/job/5-2.htm">Job 5:2</a></span><br />For resentment kills a fool, and envy slays the simple.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/27-4.htm">Proverbs 27:4</a></span><br />Wrath is cruel and anger is like a flood, but who can withstand jealousy?</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.</p><p class="hdg">sound</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/4-23.htm">Proverbs 4:23</a></b></br> Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it <i>are</i> the issues of life.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/119-80.htm">Psalm 119:80</a></b></br> Let my heart be sound in thy statutes; that I be not ashamed.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_timothy/1-7.htm">2 Timothy 1:7</a></b></br> For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.</p><p class="hdg">envy</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/job/5-2.htm">Job 5:2</a></b></br> For wrath killeth the foolish man, and envy slayeth the silly one.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/112-10.htm">Psalm 112:10</a></b></br> The wicked shall see <i>it</i>, and be grieved; he shall gnash with his teeth, and melt away: the desire of the wicked shall perish.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/acts/7-9.htm">Acts 7:9</a></b></br> And the patriarchs, moved with envy, sold Joseph into Egypt: but God was with him,</p><p class="hdg">rottenness</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/3-8.htm">Proverbs 3:8</a></b></br> It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/12-4.htm">Proverbs 12:4</a></b></br> A virtuous woman <i>is</i> a crown to her husband: but she that maketh ashamed <i>is</i> as rottenness in his bones.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/17-22.htm">Proverbs 17:22</a></b></br> A merry heart doeth good <i>like</i> a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/proverbs/6-25.htm">Body</a> <a href="/proverbs/12-4.htm">Bones</a> <a href="/proverbs/12-4.htm">Disease</a> <a href="/proverbs/3-31.htm">Envy</a> <a href="/proverbs/11-17.htm">Flesh</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-29.htm">Gives</a> <a href="/psalms/107-20.htm">Healed</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-26.htm">Heart</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-27.htm">Life</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-23.htm">Makes</a> <a href="/proverbs/12-8.htm">Mind</a> <a href="/proverbs/5-19.htm">Passion</a> <a href="/proverbs/12-20.htm">Peace</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-17.htm">Quiet</a> <a href="/proverbs/10-7.htm">Rot</a> <a href="/proverbs/12-4.htm">Rottenness</a> <a href="/proverbs/8-14.htm">Sound</a> <a href="/1_timothy/2-2.htm">Tranquil</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/proverbs/16-24.htm">Body</a> <a href="/proverbs/15-30.htm">Bones</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/5-17.htm">Disease</a> <a href="/proverbs/23-17.htm">Envy</a> <a href="/proverbs/23-20.htm">Flesh</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-31.htm">Gives</a> <a href="/proverbs/15-4.htm">Healed</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-33.htm">Heart</a> <a href="/proverbs/15-4.htm">Life</a> <a href="/proverbs/15-2.htm">Makes</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-33.htm">Mind</a> <a href="/isaiah/10-25.htm">Passion</a> <a href="/proverbs/16-7.htm">Peace</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-1.htm">Quiet</a> <a href="/isaiah/19-6.htm">Rot</a> <a href="/isaiah/3-24.htm">Rottenness</a> <a href="/proverbs/18-1.htm">Sound</a> <a href="/1_timothy/2-2.htm">Tranquil</a><div class="vheading2">Proverbs 14</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/14-1.htm">A wise woman builds her house</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/proverbs/14.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/proverbs/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/proverbs/14.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>A tranquil heart is life to the body</b><br>A tranquil heart refers to an inner peace and contentment that comes from trusting in God. This peace is often associated with the Hebrew concept of "shalom," which encompasses wholeness and well-being. In biblical context, tranquility is a result of righteousness and wisdom, as seen in <a href="/proverbs/3-17.htm">Proverbs 3:17</a>, which states that wisdom's ways are "pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace." The idea that a peaceful heart brings life to the body aligns with the holistic view of health in ancient Israel, where spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being were interconnected. This phrase suggests that inner peace can lead to physical health, a concept supported by modern studies on the impact of stress and emotions on physical health.<p><b>but envy rots the bones</b><br>Envy, or jealousy, is depicted as a destructive force that can consume a person from within. In biblical terms, envy is often linked to sin and moral decay, as seen in the story of Cain and Abel (<a href="/genesis/4-3.htm">Genesis 4:3-8</a>), where Cain's envy leads to murder. The imagery of "rotting bones" conveys a deep, internal corruption that affects one's entire being. This phrase highlights the contrast between the life-giving nature of a peaceful heart and the destructive power of envy. The metaphor of bones rotting suggests a slow, insidious process, emphasizing the long-term spiritual and physical consequences of harboring envy. This aligns with <a href="/james/3-16.htm">James 3:16</a>, which warns that "where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice."<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/s/solomon.htm">Solomon</a></b><br>Traditionally attributed as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. His insights into human nature and godly living are reflected throughout the book of Proverbs.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/a/ancient_israel.htm">Ancient Israel</a></b><br>The cultural and historical context in which Proverbs was written. Understanding the societal norms and values of ancient Israel can provide deeper insight into the text.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_heart.htm">The Heart</a></b><br>In Hebrew thought, the heart ("lev") is the center of one's inner life, encompassing emotions, thoughts, and will. It is crucial in understanding one's relationship with God and others.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/e/envy.htm">Envy</a></b><br>A destructive emotion that is often highlighted in biblical texts as contrary to godly living. It is seen as a sin that can lead to further moral decay.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_body.htm">The Body</a></b><br>Represents the physical aspect of a person, which is affected by the state of the heart. The Hebrew word for body ("basar") often refers to the whole person, emphasizing the interconnectedness of physical and spiritual health.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_power_of_a_tranquil_heart.htm">The Power of a Tranquil Heart</a></b><br>A heart at peace is a source of life and vitality. Cultivating inner peace through prayer, meditation on Scripture, and trust in God can lead to improved physical and spiritual well-being.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_destructive_nature_of_envy.htm">The Destructive Nature of Envy</a></b><br>Envy is corrosive, affecting not only our spiritual health but also our physical bodies. Recognizing and confessing envy is crucial for spiritual growth and health.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/g/guarding_the_heart.htm">Guarding the Heart</a></b><br>Proverbs emphasizes the importance of guarding our hearts. Regular self-examination and seeking God's help in maintaining a pure heart are essential practices for believers.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_interconnectedness_of_body_and_spirit.htm">The Interconnectedness of Body and Spirit</a></b><br>Our physical health is often a reflection of our spiritual state. Maintaining a healthy spiritual life can lead to better physical health and vice versa.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/p/pursuing_contentment.htm">Pursuing Contentment</a></b><br>Contentment is a powerful antidote to envy. By focusing on gratitude and the blessings God has given us, we can cultivate a heart of peace.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_proverbs_14.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 14</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/does_medicine_back_'tranquil_heart'_claim.htm">Proverbs 14:30: Does modern medicine’s understanding of mental health fully support the claim that “a tranquil heart gives life to the flesh”? </a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_is_the_good_news_of_jesus_christ.htm">How does envy affect your peace and relationships?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/can_psalm_32_3-4's_suffering_be_tested.htm">How can the physical suffering described in Psalm 32:3–4 be scientifically tested or verified in a modern context? </a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_does_envy_impact_peace_and_ties.htm">How does envy affect your peace and relationships?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/proverbs/14.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(30) <span class= "bld">A sound heart</span>--<span class= "ital">i.e.</span>, one in healthy condition, of which the passions and emotions are under control.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/proverbs/14.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 30.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">A sound heart is the life of the flesh.</span> The heart that is healthy, morally and physically, spreads its beneficent influence over the whole body in all its functions and relations; this is expressed by the word for "flesh" (<span class="accented">besarim</span>), being in the plural number, as the Vulgate renders, <span class="accented">vita carnium</span>, but the contrast is better developed by taking <span class="hebrew">מרפא</span> in its other signification of "calm," "gentle," "meek," as <a href="/ecclesiastes/10-4.htm">Ecclesiastes 10:4</a>. Thus the Septuagint, "The man of gentle mind (<span class="greek">πραυ'´θυμος</span>) is the physician of the heart." The tranquil, well controlled heart gives health and vigor to the whole frame (see on Proverbs 15:4). <span class="cmt_word">But envy is the rottenness of the bones</span> (<a href="/proverbs/12-4.htm">Proverbs 12:4</a>). Envy, like a canker, eats away a man's life and strength; it tells on his physical as well as his moral condition. We hays parallel expressions in classical authors. Thus Horace, 'Epist.,' 1:257 - <p><span class="foreign">"Invidus alterius macrescit rebus opimis."</span> Martial, 'Epigr.,' 5:28 - <p><span class="foreign">"Rubiginosis cuncta dentibus rodit;<br />Hominem malignum forsan esse tu credas,<br />Ego esse miserum credo, cui placet nemo."</span> Bengal proverb, "In seeing another's wealth it is not good to have the eyes smart." Arabic. "Envy is a raging fever, and has no rest" (Lane). "O invidia," cries St. Jerome ('Epist.,' 45), "primum mordax tui." "When the foul sore of envy corrupts the vanquished heart," says St. Gregory ('Moral.,' 5:85). "the very exterior itself shows how forcibly the mind is urged by madness. For paleness seizes the complexion, the eyes are weighed down, the spirit is inflamed, while the limbs are chilled, there is frenzy in the heart, there is gnashing with the teeth, and while the growing bate is buried in the depths of the heart, the pent wound works into the conscience with a blind grief" Septuagint, "A sensitive heart (<span class="greek">καρδία αἰσθητική</span>) is a worm (<span class="greek">σής</span>) in the bones." A heart that feels too acutely and is easily affected by external circumstances, prepares for itself constant vexation and grief. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/proverbs/14-30.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">A tranquil</span><br /><span class="heb">מַרְפֵּ֑א</span> <span class="translit">(mar·pê)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_4832.htm">Strong's 4832: </a> </span><span class="str2">Curative, a medicine, a cure, deliverance, placidity</span><br /><br /><span class="word">heart</span><br /><span class="heb">לֵ֣ב</span> <span class="translit">(lêḇ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3820.htm">Strong's 3820: </a> </span><span class="str2">The heart, the feelings, the will, the intellect, centre</span><br /><br /><span class="word">is life</span><br /><span class="heb">חַיֵּ֣י</span> <span class="translit">(ḥay·yê)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine plural construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2416.htm">Strong's 2416: </a> </span><span class="str2">Alive, raw, fresh, strong, life</span><br /><br /><span class="word">to the body,</span><br /><span class="heb">בְ֭שָׂרִים</span> <span class="translit">(ḇə·śā·rîm)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1320.htm">Strong's 1320: </a> </span><span class="str2">Flesh, body, person, the pudenda of a, man</span><br /><br /><span class="word">but envy</span><br /><span class="heb">קִנְאָֽה׃</span> <span class="translit">(qin·’āh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - feminine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7068.htm">Strong's 7068: </a> </span><span class="str2">Ardor, zeal, jealousy</span><br /><br /><span class="word">rots</span><br /><span class="heb">וּרְקַ֖ב</span> <span class="translit">(ū·rə·qaḇ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7538.htm">Strong's 7538: </a> </span><span class="str2">Rottenness, decay</span><br /><br /><span class="word">the bones.</span><br /><span class="heb">עֲצָמ֣וֹת</span> <span class="translit">(‘ă·ṣā·mō·wṯ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - feminine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6106.htm">Strong's 6106: </a> </span><span class="str2">A bone, the body, the substance, selfsame</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/proverbs/14-30.htm">Proverbs 14:30 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/proverbs/14-30.htm">Proverbs 14:30 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/proverbs/14-30.htm">Proverbs 14:30 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/proverbs/14-30.htm">Proverbs 14:30 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/proverbs/14-30.htm">Proverbs 14:30 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/proverbs/14-30.htm">Proverbs 14:30 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/proverbs/14-30.htm">Proverbs 14:30 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/proverbs/14-30.htm">Proverbs 14:30 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/proverbs/14-30.htm">Proverbs 14:30 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/proverbs/14-30.htm">Proverbs 14:30 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/proverbs/14-30.htm">OT Poetry: Proverbs 14:30 The life of the body (Prov. Pro Pr) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/proverbs/14-29.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Proverbs 14:29"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Proverbs 14:29" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/proverbs/14-31.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Proverbs 14:31"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Proverbs 14:31" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>