Proverbs 21:18
The wicked is a ransom for the righteous, and the traitor for the upright.
In context
15 When justice is done, it is a joy to the righteous but terror to evildoers. 16 One who wanders from the way of good sense will rest in the assembly of the dead.
17 Whoever loves pleasure will be a poor man; he who loves wine and oil will not be rich. 18 The wicked is a ransom for the righteous, and the traitor for the upright. 19 It is better to live in a desert land than with a quarrelsome and fretful woman. 20 Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man’s dwelling, but a foolish man devours it.
21 Whoever pursues righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honor.
Compare in other versions
- KJV King James Version
— Proverbs 21:18 in the KJV
The wicked shall be a ransom for the righteous, And the transgressor for the upright.
- NIV New International Version
— Proverbs 21:18 in the NIV
The wicked become a ransom for the righteous, and the unfaithful for the upright.