Proverbs 1:11

Berean Standard Bible
If they say, “Come along, let us lie in wait for blood, let us ambush the innocent without cause,
 
King James Bible
If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause:
 
NET Bible
If they say, "Come with us! We will lie in wait to shed blood; we will ambush an innocent person capriciously.
 
Hebrew Text:

אִם־יֹאמְרוּ לְכָה אִתָּנוּ נֶאֶרְבָה לְדָם נִצְפְּנָה לְנָקִי חִנָּם

 
Transliteration:
Im-yomru lekha itanu ne'erbah le-dam nitzpenah le-naki chinam
 
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Study Bible:
 
If they say
This phrase introduces a hypothetical situation, a common teaching method in wisdom literature. The Hebrew word for "if" (אִם, 'im) sets the stage for a conditional statement, inviting the reader to consider the consequences of certain actions. The use of "they" suggests a group, indicating peer pressure or collective influence, which is a recurring theme in Proverbs. This highlights the importance of discernment and the need to be cautious about the company one keeps, as peer influence can lead one astray from righteous paths.
 
Come along
The phrase "come along" is an invitation, often used to entice someone to join in an activity. In Hebrew, the verb used here (לֵךְ, lekh) is a command form, suggesting urgency and a sense of camaraderie. This reflects the persuasive nature of temptation, which often presents itself as an opportunity for companionship or belonging. The call to "come along" is a test of one's resolve and commitment to wisdom and righteousness.
 
let us lie in wait for blood
This phrase reveals the sinister intent of the invitation. The Hebrew word for "lie in wait" (אָרַב, 'arab) implies ambush or premeditated harm. "Blood" (דָּם, dam) symbolizes life and innocence, indicating a plot against the innocent. This stark imagery serves as a warning against joining in violence or wrongdoing. It underscores the moral decay that can result from succumbing to evil influences and the severe consequences of such actions.
 
let us ambush the innocent without cause
The word "ambush" (נִצְפְּנָה, nitzpenah) further emphasizes the deceitful and treacherous nature of the act. The "innocent" (נָקִי, naqi) refers to those who are blameless or unsuspecting, highlighting the injustice of the proposed action. "Without cause" (חִנָּם, chinnam) indicates that there is no justification for the violence, pointing to the senselessness of evil deeds. This phrase serves as a powerful reminder of the value of justice and the importance of protecting the innocent, aligning with the broader biblical theme of God's justice and righteousness.
 
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Commentary:
 
Contextual Background: Proverbs 1:10-19 forms a warning against the enticement of sinners. It's part of a larger discourse where wisdom (personified) is teaching or giving advice to the young and inexperienced.
 
The Invitation to Sin: In verse 11, the speaker (presumably Wisdom) is quoting or describing what evil companions might say to entice someone into wrongdoing. The phrase "Come with us" signifies peer pressure or the invitation to join in nefarious activities.
 
Nature of the Sin:
 
"Let us lie in wait for blood" suggests premeditated harm or violence, planning to attack others.
 
"Let us ambush the innocent without cause" emphasizes the wickedness of the act; they are targeting those who have done no wrong, making the act even more unjust and cruel.
 
Moral Lesson: The verse serves as a cautionary tale against following the wrong crowd. It warns against the temptation to participate in evil just because it's presented in a group setting or under the guise of camaraderie.
 
Wider Implications:
 
This passage is teaching discernment, encouraging individuals to think about the moral implications of their actions and the company they keep.
 
It's a call to resist peer pressure, to stand firm in one's values, and to recognize the dangers of associating with those who have malevolent intentions.
 
Educational Purpose: In the broader context of Proverbs, this verse contributes to the book's overarching theme of wisdom versus folly, righteousness versus wickedness. It aims to educate, particularly the young, on how to live a life pleasing to God by making wise choices and avoiding paths that lead to destruction.
 
In essence, Proverbs 1:11 warns against being swayed by those who suggest engaging in harmful, violent, or unjust activities, emphasizing the importance of choosing one's companions wisely and adhering to a path of righteousness.