Proverbs 18:3 When the wicked comes, then comes also contempt, and with ignominy reproach.
‘When the wicked comes’ – The arrival of a wicked person (Hebrew: rashaʿ) signals the onset of corruption, not just morally, but socially. The wicked are those who act unjustly, defy God’s laws, and live without regard for righteousness.
‘Then comes also contempt.’ With the entrance of the wicked comes contempt, either their own contempt for what is good and just, or the contempt others feel toward them because of their corrupt behaviour. Contempt is an attitude of scorn, disrespect, and defiance. It erodes trust and tears down community values.
‘And with ignominy reproach.’ Ignominy refers to disgrace or public shame, and it is closely followed by reproach, harsh criticism or dishonour. In Hebrew poetic structure, these parallel ideas reinforce a progression: wickedness brings shame that brings condemnation. The wicked bring trouble not just upon themselves, but upon the communities they infect with their dishonour.
Wickedness is never neutral. It always brings contempt, shame, and reproach, disrupting peace, discrediting leadership, and inviting judgment. Even other wicked people may despise one another, as sin breeds distrust and hostility.
This is a warning against aligning with the wicked, as their presence leads to relational breakdown, moral decay, and disgrace. It’s also a call to guard communities and institutions from corruption by upholding righteousness and integrity.
Living the Word 