Proverbs 14:27

KJV

The fear of the LORD [is] a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.

KJV (with Strong's)

The fear {H3374} of the LORD {H3068} is a fountain {H4726} of life {H2416}, to depart {H5493} from the snares {H4170} of death {H4194}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The fear of ADONAI is a fountain of life enabling one to avoid deadly traps.

Berean Standard Bible

The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death.

American Standard Version

The fear of Jehovah is a fountain of life, That one may depart from the snares of death.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 14:27 articulates a foundational principle of biblical wisdom: that a profound reverence for the LORD serves as an unending source of life, enabling one to steer clear of the destructive pitfalls and deceptive entanglements that lead to ruin. This proverb encapsulates the transformative power of a right relationship with God, portraying it as both a wellspring of vitality and a protective shield against the perils of a world alienated from divine truth.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 14 is part of the larger collection of Solomonic proverbs (chapters 10-29), which primarily consist of two-line aphorisms contrasting the wise and the foolish, the righteous and the wicked, and their respective outcomes. This chapter, in particular, juxtaposes various aspects of wisdom and folly, such as the wise woman building her house versus the foolish one tearing it down ([Proverbs 14:1](/proverbs/14-1 "Proverbs 14:1 - The Wise and Foolish Woman")), the integrity of the upright versus the perverseness of the wicked ([Proverbs 14:2](/proverbs/14-2 "Proverbs 14:2 - Integrity vs. Perverseness")), and the blessings of righteousness versus the curse of sin. Verse 27, therefore, functions as a powerful summary statement, explaining the ultimate benefit and protective nature of the "fear of the LORD" within this broader moral framework, reinforcing the consistent theme that true life and security are found in God.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of Proverbs emerged from ancient Israelite wisdom traditions, often associated with royal courts and scribal schools, where practical and ethical instruction was highly valued. In a society where life was often precarious and moral choices had immediate, tangible consequences, wisdom literature provided guidance for navigating daily existence. The concept of "snares" (môwqêsh) would have been readily understood in an agrarian and pastoral society familiar with hunting traps, symbolizing the hidden dangers and moral traps that could lead to physical, social, or spiritual death. The "fountain of life" imagery draws upon the vital importance of water sources in an arid land, signifying continuous sustenance and flourishing. The "fear of the LORD" was not a concept of terror but a profound, reverential awe and submission to the covenant God of Israel, YHWH, who was understood as the source of all wisdom, law, and blessing, as seen in foundational texts like [Deuteronomy 6:24](/deuteronomy/6-24 "The Purpose of God's Commands").
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Proverbs. Foremost is the **primacy of the "fear of the LORD"** as the **beginning of wisdom** ([Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "The Beginning of Knowledge")) and the foundation for all true knowledge and discernment. It is presented not as a peripheral religious observance but as the central orientation of one's life that dictates all other choices. Secondly, the theme of **life versus death** is paramount; "life" (chayyim) in Proverbs often refers to holistic well-being, prosperity, and flourishing, not merely biological existence, while "death" (mâveth) encompasses ruin, destruction, and spiritual decay. The proverb asserts that aligning oneself with God's wisdom through reverence leads to the former and delivers from the latter. Finally, the theme of **divine protection and deliverance** is evident, as the fear of the LORD acts as a safeguard, guiding individuals away from the perilous paths and deceptive influences that lead to destruction, echoing the protective promises found in [Psalm 91:3-4](/psalms/91-3 "God's Protection from Snares").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Fear (Hebrew, _yirʼâh'_):** This term, derived from the root "to fear," signifies far more than mere terror. In the context of the LORD, it denotes a profound reverence, awe, and respectful submission to God's holiness, power, and authority. It is an attitude of humility and worship that acknowledges God's supreme sovereignty and leads to obedience and moral discernment. This "fear" is foundational to wisdom and right living, as it compels one to align their life with divine principles.
* **Fountain (Hebrew, _mâqôwr'_):** Properly meaning "something dug" or a "source," this word refers to a spring or wellspring, a continuous and abundant source of water. In a metaphorical sense, as used here, it signifies an inexhaustible origin of vitality, refreshment, and sustenance. When applied to "life," it implies a continuous, invigorating, and flourishing existence that flows directly from the reverence of the LORD, providing spiritual, emotional, and even physical well-being.
* **Snares (Hebrew, _môwqêsh'_):** This term describes a noose or trap used for catching animals, whether literally or figuratively. By implication, it refers to deceptive dangers, enticements, or pitfalls that ensnare the unwary, leading to capture, destruction, or ruin. In the context of "snares of death," it points to moral temptations, destructive habits, harmful relationships, or spiritual deceptions that ultimately lead to spiritual or physical demise. The fear of the LORD provides the wisdom and discernment needed to avoid these hidden dangers.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life,"**: This clause establishes the primary benefit of reverencing God. It presents the "fear of the LORD" not as a burdensome obligation but as the very source, the wellspring, from which true, abundant, and continuous life flows. This life encompasses spiritual vitality, moral clarity, emotional well-being, and overall flourishing, implying that a life lived in humble awe and obedience to God is inherently enriching and sustaining.
* **"to depart from the snares of death."**: This second clause explains the practical outcome and protective aspect of this "fountain of life." The life that flows from the fear of the LORD empowers and enables an individual to "depart" or turn away from the various traps, deceptions, and destructive paths that lead to spiritual, moral, or physical ruin. It suggests that reverence for God provides the discernment and strength to avoid sin and its deadly consequences, acting as a moral compass that guides one away from peril.

#### Literary Devices
The proverb employs several potent **literary devices**. **Metaphor** is central, comparing "the fear of the LORD" to a "fountain of life." This vivid image evokes a constant, refreshing, and life-giving source, emphasizing the enduring and vital nature of reverence for God. The contrast between "fountain of life" and "snares of death" utilizes **antithesis**, highlighting the stark choice and divergent outcomes between a life oriented towards God and one that is not. The "snares of death" is also a **metaphor**, representing the hidden dangers, temptations, and destructive paths that lead to spiritual or physical demise. This imagery draws on common experiences of hunting and trapping, making the danger tangible and relatable, while the act of "departing" implies active avoidance and discernment, enabled by the wisdom flowing from the divine source.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 14:27 profoundly connects the practical wisdom of daily living with deep theological truths about God's nature and humanity's relationship with Him. The "fear of the LORD" is not a concept of terror, but a reverential awe that acknowledges God's absolute sovereignty, holiness, and goodness, leading to humble submission and obedience. This posture is consistently presented in Scripture as the foundation for true wisdom and flourishing, recognizing that life's true source and ultimate meaning reside in God alone. It speaks to the biblical understanding that true security and vitality are found not in human ingenuity or worldly pursuits, but in aligning one's life with the divine will, which inherently protects from the destructive forces of sin and folly. This wisdom tradition finds its ultimate expression in the person of Christ, who embodies divine wisdom and offers abundant life.

* [Psalm 36:9](/psalms/36-9 "The Fountain of Life") - "For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light."
* [John 8:12](/john/8-12 "Jesus, the Light of the World") - "Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, 'I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'"
* [Proverbs 2:10-11](/proverbs/2-10 "Wisdom's Protection") - "For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul; discretion will watch over you, understanding will guard you."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 14:27 offers timeless guidance for navigating the complexities of modern life. Cultivating a genuine "fear of the LORD" means more than intellectual assent to God's existence; it involves a profound reorientation of our hearts and minds towards His supreme authority and loving character. This reverence acts as an internal moral compass, guiding our decisions, shaping our desires, and empowering us to resist the myriad "snares of death" that society presents—from the seductive allure of consumerism and instant gratification to the destructive paths of addiction, deceit, and ungodly relationships. By prioritizing God's wisdom and seeking to live in obedience to His Word, we tap into an inexhaustible "fountain of life" that offers true peace, purpose, and spiritual vitality, safeguarding us from the spiritual and relational ruin that often accompanies a life lived apart from God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does "the fear of the LORD" truly mean to you in a practical, daily sense, beyond mere intellectual understanding?**
* **In what specific areas of your life do you most keenly feel the need for a "fountain of life," and how might cultivating deeper reverence for God address those needs?**
* **What are some of the "snares of death" (temptations, destructive habits, harmful influences) that you currently face, and how can the wisdom gained from revering God help you depart from them?**

### FAQ
**What is the difference between "fear of the LORD" and being afraid of God?**

Answer: The "fear of the LORD" (Hebrew: *yirʼâh*) as used in Proverbs 14:27 and throughout biblical wisdom literature, is distinct from a paralyzing terror or dread. While it acknowledges God's immense power and justice, its primary meaning is one of profound reverence, awe, and respectful submission. It is a recognition of God's holiness, majesty, and absolute sovereignty, which leads to a humble desire to obey His commands and live in alignment with His will. This kind of "fear" fosters a healthy, loving relationship with God, rather than driving one away in terror, as seen in passages like [Psalm 111:10](/psalms/111-10 "The Beginning of Wisdom"). It's the respectful awe a child has for a loving, powerful parent, leading to trust and obedience, not cowering.

**How does the "fear of the LORD" protect one from the "snares of death"?**

Answer: The "fear of the LORD" protects in several ways. Firstly, it cultivates **discernment and wisdom**, enabling an individual to recognize and avoid the deceptive temptations and destructive paths that lead to ruin. When one reveres God, they are more likely to seek His counsel and adhere to His moral principles, which act as a safeguard against harmful choices. Secondly, it fosters **moral courage and strength** to resist peer pressure and societal norms that contradict God's truth. Thirdly, it leads to **obedience**, which, according to Scripture, brings blessings and protection. By living in accordance with God's design, individuals naturally steer clear of the self-destructive behaviors and spiritual pitfalls that constitute the "snares of death." This protective aspect is echoed in [Proverbs 2:11](/proverbs/2-11 "Discretion and Understanding Guard You"), where discretion and understanding guard the one who seeks wisdom.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 14:27, with its declaration that "The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death," finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament concept of "fear of the LORD" pointed to a reverential awe and obedience to God's law as the path to life, it was through Christ that humanity gained full access to the true "fountain of life" and complete deliverance from death's snares. Jesus Himself declared, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "Jesus, the Way, Truth, and Life")), embodying the very life that flows from God. He is the wisdom of God incarnate ([1 Corinthians 1:24](/1_corinthians/1-24 "Christ, the Power and Wisdom of God")), and in Him, the "fear of the LORD"—understood as perfect reverence and obedience—was perfectly lived out. Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Christ conquered the ultimate "snare of death"—sin itself—and its power over humanity ([Hebrews 2:14-15](/hebrews/2-14 "Christ's Victory Over Death")). Those who place their faith in Him receive not just a departure from death's snares, but eternal life, a continuous and overflowing spring of spiritual vitality that flows from the Holy Spirit dwelling within them, as promised in [John 7:38](/john/7-38 "Rivers of Living Water")). Thus, the proverb's wisdom finds its ultimate reality and spiritual efficacy in the person and work of Jesus, who is both the perfect embodiment of the fear of the LORD and the inexhaustible fountain of life for all who believe.

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 13:14

¶ The law of the wise [is] a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.

Revelation 21:6

And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.

Proverbs 2:10

¶ When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul;

Proverbs 2:18

For her house inclineth unto death, and her paths unto the dead.

Isaiah 33:6

And wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of thy times, [and] strength of salvation: the fear of the LORD [is] his treasure.

Proverbs 22:5

¶ Thorns [and] snares [are] in the way of the froward: he that doth keep his soul shall be far from them.

Psalms 18:5

The sorrows of hell compassed me about: the snares of death prevented me.