King James Version
Proverbs 1:8 in the King James Version says “My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother:” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 1 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother:”
Proverbs 1:8 · KJV
To understand a proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings. the interpretation: or, an eloquent speech
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction. the beginning: or, the principal part
My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother:
For they shall be an ornament of grace unto thy head, and chains about thy neck. an: Heb. an adding
My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“hear”
H8085to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
“My son”
H1121a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
“the instruction”
H4148properly, chastisement; figuratively, reproof, warning or instruction; also restraint
“of thy father”
H1father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
“and forsake”
H5203properly, to pound, i.e., smite; by implication (as if beating out, and thus expanding) to disperse; also, to thrust off, down, out or upon (inclusive
“of thy mother”
H517a mother (as the bond of the family); in a wide sense (both literally and figuratively [like father])
This verse is found in the book of Proverbs. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Proverbs 1:8 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Proverbs 1:8 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge