Proverbs 1:8

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

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

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

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

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

Proverbs 1:8 serves as a foundational verse in the book of Proverbs, immediately setting the tone for the wisdom literature that follows. It is a direct address from a wise teacher, likely a father figure, to a student or son, emphasizing the paramount importance of heeding parental guidance.

Context of Proverbs 1:8

The book of Proverbs is a collection of practical wisdom for living a life pleasing to God and beneficial to oneself and others. It is largely attributed to King Solomon, known for his unparalleled wisdom. The opening chapters (Proverbs 1-9) act as an extended exhortation to embrace wisdom and avoid folly. This verse, "My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother," establishes the primary source of initial wisdom for a young person: the home. It underscores the belief that true wisdom begins with foundational truths learned from those who have gone before, particularly one's parents. This aligns with the broader biblical principle of honoring one's father and mother, which is presented as the first commandment with a promise.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Parental Authority and Instruction: The verse highlights the vital role of parents as primary educators and moral guides. The father's "instruction" (musar) and the mother's "law" (torah) are presented as complementary sources of wisdom.
  • Obedience and Receptivity: The imperative "hear" (Hebrew: shema, implying not just listening but obeying) and "forsake not" emphasize the necessity of active reception and adherence to this guidance. It's not enough to simply hear; one must internalize and live by it. This commitment to parental teaching often leads to a life of blessing, as seen in Proverbs 3:1-2.
  • Foundation of Wisdom: For the ancient Israelite, the home was the primary school. The teachings of parents were seen as the initial steps toward understanding God's broader wisdom and living a righteous life. This foundational wisdom prepares one for greater spiritual and practical discernment.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew terms used in this verse are particularly rich:

  • "Instruction" (Hebrew: musar): This word carries the meaning of discipline, correction, moral training, and reproof. It's not just passive teaching but active shaping of character, often through correction when necessary. It implies a process of learning through experience and guidance.
  • "Law" (Hebrew: torah): While often associated with the Mosaic Law, in this context, torah refers broadly to teaching, guidance, or instruction. It signifies the mother's guiding principles and precepts, often imparted through daily life and example. It suggests a consistent, guiding influence that shapes the child's understanding of right and wrong.

Practical Application

Proverbs 1:8 remains profoundly relevant for both children and parents today:

  • For Children/Youth: It is a call to humility and openness. Recognizing that parents, especially those who seek to instill godly values, offer invaluable wisdom born of experience and biblical truth. Listening to and applying their guidance can prevent many pitfalls and lead to a more stable and fulfilling life.
  • For Parents: This verse underscores the immense responsibility and privilege of raising children in the ways of the Lord. Parents are called to actively provide "instruction" and "law" – not just rules, but a holistic training in righteousness and wisdom, modeling the principles they teach. This echoes the command found in Deuteronomy 6:7 to diligently teach these words to your children.

Ultimately, Proverbs 1:8 teaches that the home is the first classroom of life, where the seeds of wisdom are sown through the diligent and loving instruction of parents, laying the groundwork for a life lived in accordance with God's will.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 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.
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