Proverbs 1:8

KJV

My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother:

KJV (with Strong's)

My son {H1121}, hear {H8085} the instruction {H4148} of thy father {H1}, and forsake {H5203} not the law {H8451} of thy mother {H517}:

Complete Jewish Bible

My son, heed the discipline of your father, and do not abandon the teaching of your mother;

Berean Standard Bible

Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction, and do not forsake the teaching of your mother.

American Standard Version

My son, hear the instruction of thy father, And forsake not the law of thy mother:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 1:8 serves as a foundational exhortation within the book of Proverbs, immediately establishing the primary source of wisdom for a young person: the home. It presents a direct address from a wise teacher, likely a father figure, to a "son," urging diligent attention to and unwavering adherence to the moral and spiritual instruction imparted by both father and mother, thereby setting the stage for a life built upon the fear of the Lord and practical discernment.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 1:8 is nestled within the prologue of the book of Proverbs (chapters 1-9), which functions as an extended parental appeal to embrace wisdom and reject folly. This section is distinct from the later collections of individual proverbs, serving as a comprehensive introduction that outlines the purpose of the book and the foundational principles for acquiring wisdom. The repeated address "My son" throughout these chapters creates an intimate, didactic tone, framing wisdom as a heritage passed down through familial instruction. This verse, specifically, sets the immediate context by identifying the initial, crucial source of this wisdom: the parents. It acts as a gateway to understanding that the subsequent proverbs are not merely abstract sayings but practical truths rooted in the lived experience and authoritative teaching of a godly household, preparing the reader to receive the deeper insights that follow, as seen in the call to listen to wisdom's cry in [Proverbs 1:20-23](/proverbs/1-20 "Proverbs 1:20-23 - Wisdom Calls Aloud").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the family was the primary social, economic, and educational unit. Unlike modern societies with formal schooling systems, the home served as the fundamental institution for transmitting cultural values, moral principles, and religious truths. Parents, particularly the father, held significant authority and responsibility for the moral and spiritual upbringing of their children. The mother, while often operating within the domestic sphere, played an equally vital role in shaping character through daily instruction, example, and the enforcement of household "law" or custom. This verse reflects the societal expectation that wisdom, beginning with the fear of the Lord, would be diligently taught and absorbed within the family unit, a principle deeply embedded in the Mosaic covenant, as exemplified by the command in [Deuteronomy 6:6-7](/deuteronomy/6-6 "Deuteronomy 6:6-7 - Teach Your Children Diligently"). The emphasis on both parents highlights the complementary nature of their roles in holistic child-rearing.
* **Key Themes:** This verse introduces several pivotal themes that permeate the book of Proverbs. Firstly, it underscores the **authority and responsibility of parents** as primary educators and moral guides, whose instruction is to be received with reverence and obedience. Secondly, it highlights the **nature of wisdom** as something actively transmitted and diligently acquired, not merely an innate quality. The "instruction" and "law" are not arbitrary rules but pathways to a flourishing life. Thirdly, the verse emphasizes the critical importance of **obedience and receptivity** ("hear" and "forsake not"). True wisdom begins with a humble willingness to listen and adhere to sound counsel. Finally, it establishes the **home as the foundational school of wisdom**, where the initial seeds of discernment and righteous living are sown, preparing the individual for a life lived in accordance with God's broader wisdom, which is presented as more precious than rubies in [Proverbs 3:15](/proverbs/3-15 "Proverbs 3:15 - Wisdom is More Precious Than Jewels").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Son (Hebrew, _bên'_):** This term (H1121) denotes a male offspring, but in the context of Proverbs, it extends beyond mere biological relationship to signify a disciple, student, or one who is being instructed. It implies a relationship of trust, receptivity, and inheritance, as the "son" is the recipient of the family's legacy of wisdom. The use of "my son" creates an intimate, personal, and authoritative tone, inviting the reader into a direct, paternal relationship with the wisdom being imparted.
* **Hear (Hebrew, _shâmaʻ'_):** The Hebrew verb (H8085) for "hear" is far more profound than simply perceiving sound. It implies intelligent listening, paying close attention, understanding, and, crucially, obeying. It carries the connotation of active reception and a willingness to act upon what is heard. In this context, it is a call to not just passively acknowledge parental instruction but to internalize it and allow it to shape one's behavior and decisions.
* **Instruction (Hebrew, _mûwçâr'_):** This word (H4148) refers to "chastisement," "reproof," "warning," or "discipline." It speaks of the process of moral training and correction, often implying a shaping that might involve discomfort or correction. It is not merely theoretical teaching but practical guidance aimed at character formation, preparing the "son" to navigate life's complexities and avoid pitfalls.
* **Law (Hebrew, _tôwrâh'_):** While often associated with the Mosaic Law, in this context (H8451), _tôwrâh_ broadly means "precept," "statute," "teaching," or "guidance." It signifies the mother's consistent principles, advice, and moral guidance, often imparted through daily life, example, and the establishment of household norms. It suggests a guiding light or framework for living righteously.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"My son,"**: This is a direct, intimate address, establishing the pedagogical relationship between the wise teacher (likely a parent figure) and the student. It is an affectionate yet authoritative opening, inviting personal engagement with the wisdom that follows.
* **"hear the instruction of thy father,"**: This is an imperative command to actively and obediently receive the father's moral training and discipline. The "instruction" encompasses correction, reproof, and guidance aimed at shaping character and behavior. It emphasizes the father's role as a primary source of foundational wisdom and ethical formation.
* **"and forsake not the law of thy mother:"**: This is a parallel imperative, urging the "son" not to abandon or disregard the mother's teaching or guiding principles. The "law" here refers to her precepts, advice, and the consistent moral framework she provides within the home. It highlights the mother's complementary and equally vital role in imparting wisdom and shaping the child's understanding of right and wrong.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 1:8 employs several potent **literary devices** to convey its message effectively. The most prominent is **Synonymous Parallelism**, where the second half of the verse ("forsake not the law of thy mother") echoes and reinforces the meaning of the first half ("hear the instruction of thy father"). This repetition with slight variation emphasizes the dual and complementary roles of both parents in imparting wisdom, ensuring that the message is deeply impressed upon the listener. The use of the **Imperative Mood** ("hear," "forsake not") creates a sense of urgency and direct command, underscoring the non-negotiable nature of this parental guidance. Furthermore, the **Direct Address** "My son" establishes an intimate, personal, and didactic tone, drawing the reader into a one-on-one mentorship relationship, making the wisdom feel personally relevant and applicable.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 1:8 lays a crucial theological foundation by emphasizing the divine design for the family as the primary institution for transmitting wisdom and moral truth. It underscores that God's wisdom is not merely abstract but is often mediated through the tangible, loving authority of parents. This verse connects to the broader biblical understanding that obedience to parental instruction is a reflection of a deeper principle of submission to God-ordained authority and a pathway to blessing. It aligns with the covenantal call for intergenerational teaching, ensuring that the knowledge of God and His ways is passed down from one generation to the next, forming a righteous society. The "instruction" and "law" received at home are the initial steps in a lifelong journey of acquiring divine wisdom, which ultimately leads to life and peace.

* [Deuteronomy 6:6-7](/deuteronomy/6-6 "Deuteronomy 6:6-7 - Teaching Children Diligently")
* [Ephesians 6:1-3](/ephesians/6-1 "Ephesians 6:1-3 - Children, Obey Your Parents")
* [Proverbs 3:1-2](/proverbs/3-1 "Proverbs 3:1-2 - Benefits of Remembering God's Law")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 1:8 remains profoundly relevant, serving as a timeless reminder of the enduring significance of familial instruction in shaping character and destiny. For children and young adults, it is a call to humility and active receptivity. In a world saturated with competing voices and influences, discerning and heeding the wisdom of parents—especially those who strive to impart godly values—is a safeguard against folly and a foundation for a stable, flourishing life. It encourages a posture of respect and openness, recognizing that parental guidance, born of experience and often rooted in biblical truth, can prevent many pitfalls. For parents, this verse underscores the immense privilege and solemn responsibility of their role as primary educators. It is a divine mandate to actively provide "instruction" and "law"—not merely a list of rules, but a holistic training in righteousness, wisdom, and the fear of the Lord, modeled through daily life and consistent teaching. This involves both firm discipline and loving guidance, shaping the next generation to walk in God's ways.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does my attitude toward parental guidance (past or present) align with the command to "hear" and "forsake not"?**
* **In what specific ways can I, as a parent or mentor, intentionally provide "instruction" and "law" that is both biblically sound and practically applicable for the next generation?**
* **What are the potential consequences, both personal and societal, of neglecting the wisdom passed down through family and community?**
* **How does the emphasis on both father and mother in this verse inform our understanding of balanced and holistic upbringing?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of both father and mother being mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: The mention of both father and mother is highly significant, highlighting the complementary and equally vital roles of both parents in the moral and spiritual upbringing of a child in ancient Israel. The "instruction" (Hebrew: _mûwçâr_) of the father often refers to formal discipline, correction, and structured teaching, reflecting his authoritative role in the household and community. The "law" (Hebrew: _tôwrâh_) of the mother, while also meaning instruction, often implies the consistent, daily guidance, precepts, and moral framework imparted within the domestic sphere. Together, they represent a holistic approach to child-rearing, where both paternal authority and maternal nurturing contribute to the child's comprehensive formation in wisdom and righteousness. This dual emphasis underscores that true wisdom is not derived from a single source but from the combined, consistent guidance of both parents.

**Does "instruction" and "law" refer only to religious teaching?**

Answer: While the book of Proverbs is fundamentally rooted in the "fear of the Lord" ([Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Knowledge")), the "instruction" and "law" mentioned in Proverbs 1:8 encompass more than just explicit religious doctrine. These terms refer to comprehensive wisdom for living a righteous and flourishing life in all its facets. This includes moral principles, ethical conduct, practical discernment, social etiquette, and even vocational skills, all viewed through a worldview shaped by faith in God. The wisdom imparted by parents would cover everything from how to manage resources to how to treat one's neighbors, how to speak wisely, and how to avoid temptation, all ultimately flowing from a reverence for God and His established order. It is a holistic education for life, with a spiritual foundation.

**How does this verse apply if one's parents are not wise or godly?**

Answer: This question addresses a crucial nuance. While Proverbs 1:8 strongly emphasizes heeding parental wisdom, the broader context of the Bible clarifies that ultimate authority and wisdom reside with God. If parental instruction contradicts God's revealed will or leads to unrighteousness, then one's primary allegiance must be to God. The principle is to honor parents ([Ephesians 6:2](/ephesians/6-2 "Ephesians 6:2 - Honor Your Father and Mother")) and receive their good counsel, but to discern all teaching through the lens of God's Word. When parental guidance is ungodly or harmful, the individual is called to seek wisdom from other godly mentors, the community of faith, and, most importantly, directly from God through His Word and prayer, as exemplified by the psalmist's reliance on God's testimonies in [Psalm 119:99-100](/psalm/119-99 "Psalm 119:99-100 - Understanding from God's Testimonies"). The verse sets forth an ideal, but God provides grace and alternative sources of wisdom when the ideal is not present.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 1:8, with its call to heed parental instruction and law, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He is the very embodiment of divine wisdom, the "Wisdom of God" personified, in whom "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge")). Unlike any human son, Jesus perfectly "heard the instruction of His Father" and "forsake not the law of His Mother" (meaning, the divine law and the principles of righteousness). His entire earthly life was characterized by perfect obedience to the Father's will, even to the point of death on a cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Jesus' Obedience to Death")). He learned obedience through what He suffered ([Hebrews 5:8](/hebrews/5-8 "Hebrews 5:8 - Jesus Learned Obedience")), demonstrating the very principle of discipline and instruction that Proverbs advocates. For believers, Christ is not only the perfect example of obedience but also the source of power to live according to God's wisdom. Through His Spirit, we are enabled to "hear" and "forsake not" the divine instruction, transforming our hearts and minds to reflect His perfect wisdom and obedience, allowing us to truly walk in the "law of the Lord" ([Psalm 1:2](/psalm/1-2 "Psalm 1:2 - Delight in the Law of the Lord")), which He perfectly fulfilled.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Proverbs 6:20

¶ My son, keep thy father's commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother:

Proverbs 30:17

The eye [that] mocketh at [his] father, and despiseth to obey [his] mother, the ravens of the valley shall pick it out, and the young eagles shall eat it.

Proverbs 5:1

¶ My son, attend unto my wisdom, [and] bow thine ear to my understanding:

Proverbs 5:2

That thou mayest regard discretion, and [that] thy lips may keep knowledge.

Proverbs 2:1

¶ My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee;

Leviticus 19:3

Ye shall fear every man his mother, and his father, and keep my sabbaths: I [am] the LORD your God.

Proverbs 1:10

¶ My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not.