Proverbs 1:9

For they [shall be] an ornament of grace unto thy head, and chains about thy neck.

For they shall be an ornament {H3880} of grace {H2580} unto thy head {H7218}, and chains {H6060} about thy neck {H1621}.

they will be a garland to grace your head, a medal of honor for your neck.

For they are a garland of grace on your head and a pendant around your neck.

For they shall be a chaplet of grace unto thy head, And chains about thy neck.

Commentary

Proverbs 1:9 is part of the opening exhortation in the Book of Proverbs, where wisdom is presented as a personified guide, urging the listener to embrace her teachings.

Context

This verse directly follows Proverbs 1:8, which commands the "son" to "hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother." Therefore, "they" in verse 9 refers to the wisdom, instruction, and law imparted by parents. The initial chapters of Proverbs establish the fundamental principle that "the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge" (Proverbs 1:7), and that adherence to godly wisdom brings tangible benefits. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, such adornments were highly valued symbols of status, wealth, and honor.

Key Themes

  • The Value of Wisdom: Wisdom, as taught by godly parents or mentors, is not a burden but a source of profound benefit. It is depicted as something desirable and valuable, far more so than material possessions.
  • Honor and Distinction: Heeding wise counsel brings honor and respect. In ancient cultures, ornaments on the head (like wreaths or crowns) and chains around the neck (like necklaces or collars) were symbols of high status, favor, and achievement. This verse promises that living wisely will bestow a similar, perhaps even greater, form of distinction.
  • Beauty of Righteousness: The passage suggests that moral and spiritual integrity, gained through obedience to wisdom, is the truest form of adornment. It is an inner beauty that radiates outward, more lasting and meaningful than any physical decoration.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "ornament of grace" translates from the Hebrew words liwyah chen (ืœึดื•ึฐื™ึทืชึพื—ึตืŸ), meaning a "wreath of grace" or "garland of favor." A wreath was often given as a sign of victory or honor. The "chains about thy neck" (anaqim, ืขึฒื ึธืงึดื™ื) refers to necklaces or collars, which were also precious items signifying wealth, status, or even protection in the ancient Near East. These images powerfully convey the idea that wisdom beautifies and elevates the one who possesses it, making them stand out in a positive light.

Practical Application

Proverbs 1:9 reminds us that embracing godly wisdom and instruction, often passed down through generations or found in Scripture, leads to a life of true beauty and honor. It encourages us to view obedience not as restrictive, but as enriching and empowering. Just as Proverbs 3:13 declares a blessing upon those who find wisdom, this verse assures us that wisdom adorns and elevates, making us stand out for good. It challenges us to prioritize spiritual and moral virtues as our most precious "ornaments," recognizing that genuine character is the most attractive and respected quality in the eyes of God and discerning people.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Daniel 5:29

    Then commanded Belshazzar, and they clothed Daniel with scarlet, and [put] a chain of gold about his neck, and made a proclamation concerning him, that he should be the third ruler in the kingdom.

  • Proverbs 4:9

    She shall give to thine head an ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee.

  • Genesis 41:42

    And Pharaoh took off his ring from his hand, and put it upon Joseph's hand, and arrayed him in vestures of fine linen, and put a gold chain about his neck;

  • Proverbs 3:22

    So shall they be life unto thy soul, and grace to thy neck.

  • Proverbs 6:20

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

  • Proverbs 6:21

    Bind them continually upon thine heart, [and] tie them about thy neck.

  • Ezekiel 16:11

    I decked thee also with ornaments, and I put bracelets upon thy hands, and a chain on thy neck.
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