Proverbs 11:7 (KJV) states, "When a wicked man dieth, his expectation shall perish: and the hope of unjust men perisheth." This verse serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of a life lived in sin and unrighteousness. It speaks to the ultimate futility and emptiness of pursuing a life of wickedness and injustice.

The book of Proverbs is a collection of wise sayings and teachings, attributed to King Solomon, which are aimed at imparting wisdom, knowledge, and understanding. The context of this particular verse is to contrast the fate of the wicked with that of the righteous. Throughout the book, the consequences of righteous living are consistently highlighted, while the folly and downfall of the wicked are warned against. In Proverbs 11, the contrast between the fate of the righteous and the wicked is a recurring theme.

The verse begins with the declaration, "When a wicked man dieth, his expectation shall perish." The "expectation" referred to here is the hope and confidence that the wicked place in their deceitful schemes and wicked deeds. This expectation is built on the notion that they can prosper through their dishonesty and exploitation of others. However, the verse makes it clear that this hope and confidence will not materialize. The wicked man's plans and desires for success, wealth, and power will ultimately come to nothing at the end of his life. This serves as a reminder that the pursuit of ill-gotten gains and the oppression of others are ultimately futile and leave the wicked without anything to show for their life's work.

The second part of the verse states, "and the hope of unjust men perisheth." The word "hope" here refers to the longing or anticipation of the unjust. This longing is for the fulfillment of their selfish desires and the satisfaction of their greed and lust for power. However, the verse emphasizes that this hope is in vain. The unjust, who have gained their wealth and power through dishonest means, will ultimately find that all their efforts to secure their own betterment will come to nothing. The verse serves as a warning that the ill-gotten gains of the unjust will ultimately come to naught, leaving them with nothing to show for their lives.

The overarching theme of this verse is the contrast between the temporary gains of the wicked and the lasting rewards of the righteous. It highlights the folly and emptiness of pursuing a life of sin, exploitation, and injustice. The verse serves as a call to righteousness and a warning against the pursuit of dishonest gain and oppression of others. It urges the reader to consider the ultimate consequences of their actions and to seek a life of integrity, honesty, and righteousness.

In addition to its moral and ethical teachings, this verse also carries a strong element of symbolism. The "expectation" and "hope" of the wicked can be seen as representative of the false sense of security and success that comes from worldly wealth and power. The verse serves as a reminder that such pursuits are ultimately hollow and will not bring lasting fulfillment or satisfaction. In contrast, the righteousness and integrity of the righteous are represented as the ultimate source of true meaning and satisfaction in life.

In conclusion, Proverbs 11:7 (KJV) serves as a powerful admonition against the pursuit of a life of wickedness and injustice. It emphasizes the ultimate futility and emptiness of such pursuits, and encourages the reader to seek a life of righteousness and integrity. The verse warns against the false sense of security and hope that comes from ill-gotten gains and the oppression of others. It serves as a call to reevaluate one's priorities and pursue a life of moral and ethical excellence.