The Evil Eye

(Proverbs 23:6 KJV)  Eat thou not the bread of him that hath an evil eye, neither desire thou his dainty meats:

I find the KJV interesting here.  It translates this literally as “evil” (7451) “eye” (5869) where the NASB has “selfish man.”  I have heard the term and always thought of it as superstitious nonsense.  In doing a little research I find the idea is common in many cultures and very strong in the Middle East.  It seems to be understood as signifying someone who is wishing bad things on you.  It can be as simple as bad thoughts or as complex as casting spells and resorting to witchcraft. 

Be sensitive to people who have something against you.  This can be envy, jealousy or any form of hatred.  Don’t spend time with them. 

So?  I guess it goes without saying that we should also not be this kind of person.  If there is someone you wish evil toward, you are living in sin.  Avoid people like that.  Don’t become one.