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    In Context

    What Does the Bible Say About Envy — In Biblical Context

    Envy is consistently condemned as destructive to the soul and contrary to the love God calls believers to practice.

    Quick Answer

    Envy is consistently condemned as destructive to the soul and contrary to the love God calls believers to practice.

    "A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones." — Proverbs 14:30 (KJV)

    The Biblical Context

    Proverbs 14:30 warns that 'envy is the rottenness of the bones.' Galatians 5:19-21 lists envying among the works of the flesh. James 3:14-16 says, 'Where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.' Envy was the motive behind Cain killing Abel, Joseph's brothers selling him into slavery, and the religious leaders crucifying Jesus (Mark 15:10). The antidote to envy is contentment and love — Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 13:4 that 'charity envieth not.' Philippians 4:11 models contentment: 'I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.' Romans 12:15 encourages believers to 'rejoice with them that do rejoice,' transforming envy into celebration of others' blessings.

    Where It Sits in Scripture

    The core passage for this question, Proverbs 14:30, sits inside Proverbs 14. To grasp the full meaning, read the surrounding paragraph — the verses before set up the thought, the verses after carry it forward.

    "A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones."
    — Proverbs 14:30 (KJV)

    Supporting Passages

    James 3:16
    "For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work."
    1 Corinthians 13:4
    "Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up."

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