King James Version
Proverbs 4:4 in the King James Version says “He taught me also, and said unto me, Let thine heart retain my words: keep my commandments, and live.” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“He taught me also, and said unto me, Let thine heart retain my words: keep my commandments, and live.”
Proverbs 4:4 · KJV
For I give you good doctrine, forsake ye not my law.
For I was my father's son, tender and only beloved in the sight of my mother.
He taught me also, and said unto me, Let thine heart retain my words: keep my commandments, and live.
Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth.
Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: love her, and she shall keep thee.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“He taught”
H3384properly, to flow as water (i.e., to rain); transitively, to lay or throw (especially an arrow, i.e., to shoot); figuratively, to point out (as if by
“retain”
H8551to sustain; by implication, to obtain, keep fast; figuratively, to help, follow close
“my words”
H1697a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
“unto me Let thine heart”
H3820the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
“keep”
H8104properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
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 4:4 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 4:4 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge