Overview
The Bible addresses envy across 11 verses, drawn from both the Old and New Testaments. These passages cluster most in Psalms, Galatians and Job. Closely related themes include Strife, Death, Happiness of the Wicked, the and Integrity.
Key Bible verses about envy
Old Testament
Job
Psalms
Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then understood I their end.
Surely thou didst set them in slippery places: thou castedst them down into destruction.
How are they brought into desolation, as in a moment! they are utterly consumed with terrors.
As a dream when one awaketh; so, O Lord, when thou awakest, thou shalt despise their image.
New Testament
Galatians
Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,
Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,
Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
1 Timothy
He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, proud: or, a fool doting: or, sick
Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself. Perverse: or, Gallings one of another
In the Bible dictionary
Studying envy for yourself
- Begin with Job 5:2, then read the passages below in canonical order.
- Compare how Psalms, Galatians and Job each treat the theme.
- Widen the study to related themes: Strife, Death, Happiness of the Wicked, the and Integrity.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Bible say about envy?
The Bible addresses envy across 11 verses, drawn from both the Old and New Testaments. These passages cluster most in Psalms, Galatians and Job. Closely related themes include Strife, Death, Happiness of the Wicked, the and Integrity.
How many Bible verses are about envy?
The Bible references envy in 11 verses (King James Version).
Where does the Bible first mention envy?
In canonical order, the first of these passages is Job 5:2: “For wrath killeth the foolish man, and envy slayeth the silly one. envy: or, indignation”
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