Proverbs 3:1
What does Proverbs 3:1 mean?
A plain-English look at Proverbs 3:1 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Proverbs 3:1 means
This verse opens with a fatherly appeal for his son to actively remember and internalize his teachings, which are equated with God's law. The emphasis is on the heart, highlighting that true adherence goes beyond mere intellectual assent; it requires a deep, personal commitment and a willingness to let these divine principles shape one's inner being and actions. It's a call to make God's instructions fundamental to one's life, not just an occasional consideration.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000My son, forget not my law; But let thy heart keep my commandments:
KJV
King James Version · 1611My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments:
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901My son, forget not my law; But let thy heart keep my commandments:
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949My son, keep my teaching in your memory, and my rules in your heart:
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862My son! my law forget not, And my commands let thy heart keep,
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752My son, forget not my law, and let thy heart keep my commandments.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890My son, forget not my teaching, and let thy heart observe my commandments;
Context
This verse begins the chapter with a direct address from a father to his son, setting a personal and instructional tone. It serves as an immediate, foundational exhortation to obedience, which the following verses will elaborate upon. The call to remember and keep God's law here introduces the concept of divine wisdom that permeates the entire chapter, providing the basis for all subsequent promises and warnings.
v.1This passage
v.2For length of days, and years of life, And peace, will they add to thee.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Psalms 119:34
Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy law; Yea, I shall observe it with my whole heart.
- Psalms 119:153
Consider mine affliction, and deliver me; For I do not forget thy law.
- Deuteronomy 8:1
All the commandment which I command thee this day shall ye observe to do, that ye may live, and multiply, and go in and possess the land which Jehovah sware unto your fathers.
- Isaiah 51:17
Awake, awake, stand up, O Jerusalem, that hast drunk at the hand of Jehovah the cup of his wrath; thou hast drunken the bowl of the cup of staggering, and drained it.
- Deuteronomy 6:6
And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be upon thy heart;
- Proverbs 4:5
Get wisdom, get understanding; Forget not, neither decline from the words of my mouth;
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