Proverbs 19:27

KJV

¶ Cease, my son, to hear the instruction [that causeth] to err from the words of knowledge.

KJV (with Strong's)

Cease {H2308}, my son {H1121}, to hear {H8085} the instruction {H4148} that causeth to err {H7686} from the words {H561} of knowledge {H1847}.

Complete Jewish Bible

My son, if you stop heeding discipline, you will stray from the principles of knowledge.

Berean Standard Bible

If you cease to hear instruction, my son, you will stray from the words of knowledge.

American Standard Version

Cease, my son, to hear instruction Onlyto err from the words of knowledge.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 19:27 delivers a profound paternal warning, urging the "son" to actively disengage from and reject any teaching or counsel that deviates from divine truth. It underscores the critical importance of spiritual and intellectual discernment in selecting sources of instruction, highlighting the inherent danger of passively absorbing ideas that lead one astray from the foundational principles of God's revealed wisdom. This proverb serves as an imperative call to vigilance, emphasizing that true knowledge, rooted in God's Word, is the only safeguard against error and a prerequisite for walking in righteousness.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 19:27 is nestled within the larger collection of Solomonic proverbs (chapters 10-29), which primarily consist of individual, often antithetical or synonymous, wisdom sayings designed to impart practical and theological truth. This particular verse fits seamlessly into the broader pedagogical framework of the book, where a wise father consistently addresses his "son," offering guidance on how to navigate life's complexities righteously. The immediate context of Proverbs 19 presents a mosaic of moral instructions: [Proverbs 19:26](/proverbs/19-26 "Proverbs 19:26 - Abusing Parents") condemns those who mistreat their parents, while [Proverbs 19:28](/proverbs/19-28 "Proverbs 19:28 - A Worthless Witness") speaks against false witnesses. Within this tapestry, verse 27 specifically targets the internal reception of ideas, emphasizing that the *source* and *content* of instruction are paramount to one's moral and spiritual trajectory. The recurring motif of the father-son relationship throughout the book, as seen in passages like [Proverbs 1:8](/proverbs/1-8 "Proverbs 1:8 - Hear, my son, your father's instruction"), establishes an authoritative and relational context for the transmission of wisdom, framing it not as abstract philosophy but as vital, life-shaping counsel.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the transmission of wisdom was primarily a familial and communal responsibility. Fathers, in particular, bore the sacred duty of instructing their children in the ways of the Lord, ensuring the continuity of covenant faithfulness across generations. This educational model is deeply rooted in the Torah, as exemplified by the command in [Deuteronomy 6:6-7](/deuteronomy/6-6 "Deuteronomy 6:6-7 - Teach your children diligently"), which calls for diligent instruction in God's statutes. The "son" in Proverbs represents not only a literal offspring but also a spiritual disciple or any individual seeking wisdom, making the proverb's counsel universally applicable. The cultural landscape of the ancient Near East was replete with various forms of wisdom, some leading to life and others to destruction. Therefore, the ability to discern between true, divinely-inspired wisdom and misleading, human-centric or pagan instruction was not merely an academic exercise but a matter of spiritual survival and societal well-being. The "words of knowledge" implicitly refer to the revealed truth of God, distinguishing it from the speculative or idolatrous wisdom of surrounding nations.
* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 19:27 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes central to the book of Proverbs and biblical wisdom literature. Firstly, it highlights the paramount theme of **Discernment**, urging the audience to actively and critically evaluate the source and content of all instruction rather than passively accepting it. This directly aligns with the broader biblical call for wisdom, which is defined as the ability to make righteous choices and grasp divine truth, as underscored in [Proverbs 4:7](/proverbs/4-7 "Proverbs 4:7 - Wisdom is the principal thing"). Secondly, the verse explicitly addresses the stark dichotomy between **Truth vs. Error**, warning against "instruction that causeth to err" and contrasting it sharply with "the words of knowledge." This fundamental opposition is a consistent motif throughout Proverbs, which consistently presents two paths: the path of wisdom leading to life and flourishing, and the path of folly leading to destruction, as vividly portrayed in [Proverbs 4:18-19](/proverbs/4-18 "Proverbs 4:18-19 - The Path of the Righteous and the Wicked"). Finally, it underscores the vital theme of **Personal Responsibility** in one's spiritual and intellectual development. The imperative to "cease" places the onus squarely on the individual to actively guard their mind and heart from harmful influences, emphasizing the proactive role required in pursuing and preserving true wisdom.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Cease (Hebrew, _châdal'_):** From H2308, this primitive root means "to be flabby, i.e. (by implication) desist; (figuratively) be lacking or idle." In this context, it functions as a strong imperative command, urging a conscious and deliberate cessation of an action. The "son" is commanded not merely to stop passively but to actively disengage from the harmful practice of listening to misleading instruction. It implies a decisive break from a dangerous habit or influence.
* **Instruction (Hebrew, _mûwçâr'_):** From H4148, this word properly means "chastisement; figuratively, reproof, warning or instruction; also restraint." While _mûwçâr_ often carries a positive connotation, referring to beneficial discipline or moral teaching, here it is qualified by the subsequent phrase, indicating a form of teaching that, despite its outward appearance or intention, leads to error. This highlights that not all "instruction" is good or beneficial; some can be profoundly detrimental.
* **Err (Hebrew, _shâgâh'_):** From H7686, this primitive root means "to stray (causatively, mislead), usually (figuratively) to mistake, especially (morally) to transgress; by extension (through the idea of intoxication) to reel, (figuratively) be enraptured." In Proverbs 19:27, it vividly describes the dangerous consequence of heeding certain instruction: it causes one to wander off the right path, to make a moral or intellectual mistake, or to be led astray from truth, often with serious spiritual implications.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Cease, my son, to hear":** This opening imperative establishes a direct, authoritative command from a father figure to his son, emphasizing the urgency and personal responsibility involved. The verb "cease" (_châdal_) is a strong injunction to stop an ongoing action or to refrain from initiating it. The act of "hearing" (_shâmaʻ_) here implies much more than mere auditory reception; it encompasses attentive listening, heeding, internalizing, and obeying. The instruction is not simply to block out sound, but to actively refuse to give attention, credence, or obedience to certain teachings.
* **"the instruction [that causeth] to err":** This clause precisely specifies the dangerous nature of the instruction from which the son must cease. The term "instruction" (_mûwçâr_) refers to discipline, teaching, or moral guidance. However, it is immediately and critically qualified by the phrase "that causeth to err" (_shâgâh_), indicating that this particular instruction is deceptive, misleading, and actively leads one astray from the correct path of righteousness and truth. It serves as a crucial warning that not all teaching is beneficial; some can actively lead to moral, spiritual, or intellectual deviation.
* **"from the words of knowledge":** This final phrase clarifies the absolute standard against which the misleading instruction is measured and from which it deviates. "Words of knowledge" (_ʼêmer_ of _daʻath_) refers to sound understanding, divine wisdom, and established truth, particularly God's revealed Word. It represents the true, reliable, and unchanging source of guidance. The implication is that the instruction to be avoided is that which pulls one away from what is genuinely known and true, leading them into ignorance or error rather than deeper understanding.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 19:27 employs several potent **literary devices** to convey its urgent message with clarity and impact. The most prominent is the **Imperative Mood**, evident in the opening command "Cease," which underscores the non-negotiable and immediate nature of the instruction. This direct address, "my son," functions as a form of **Apostrophe** and is characteristic of the pervasive **Paternal Instruction** motif found throughout the wisdom literature, establishing a relational yet authoritative tone that personalizes the advice for the reader. The verse also skillfully utilizes **Antithesis** by contrasting "instruction that causeth to err" with "the words of knowledge." This stark opposition highlights the two mutually exclusive outcomes of different types of counsel: deviation from truth versus adherence to it. Furthermore, there is an implied **Metaphor** of a path or journey, where "to err" signifies straying from the correct course, and "words of knowledge" represent the true guide or map for life's journey. The compact, aphoristic nature of the proverb itself is a form of **Conciseness**, designed for memorability and impactful delivery, distilling complex wisdom into a digestible, actionable statement.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 19:27 speaks profoundly to the theological necessity of discernment in a world saturated with competing voices and ideologies. It underscores that truth is not relative, but rather a fixed, divine standard—"the words of knowledge"—from which any deviation constitutes error. This principle is foundational to biblical faith, which consistently warns against false prophets, deceptive teachings, and the dangers of spiritual blindness. The proverb implicitly calls believers to a posture of critical evaluation, not cynicism, but a commitment to test all things against the plumb line of divine revelation. It reminds us that spiritual maturity involves not just acquiring knowledge, but also wisely guarding against influences that would lead us away from it, recognizing that spiritual error can be as destructive as moral transgression. This active discernment is a mark of true wisdom and a safeguard for one's soul.

* [Matthew 7:15](/matthew/7-15 "Matthew 7:15 - Beware of False Prophets")
* [1 John 4:1](/1_john/4-1 "1 John 4:1 - Test the Spirits")
* [2 Timothy 3:16-17](/2_timothy/3-16-17 "2 Timothy 3:16-17 - All Scripture is God-breathed and Profitable")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In an age of unprecedented information flow, diverse perspectives, and pervasive digital media, Proverbs 19:27 stands as an evergreen beacon for the discerning heart. It challenges us to move beyond passive consumption of information—whether from social media, news outlets, educational institutions, or even religious pulpits—and to actively engage in the critical evaluation of every message. The imperative "Cease, my son, to hear" demands a proactive stance: we must intentionally filter what we allow into our minds and hearts, recognizing that ideas have profound consequences. This means cultivating a deep familiarity with "the words of knowledge"—God's unchanging truth as revealed in Scripture—so that we can readily identify and reject anything that causes us to err from it. Our spiritual health, moral compass, and eternal trajectory are profoundly shaped by the voices we choose to heed, making discernment not merely a good habit, but a vital spiritual discipline for navigating the complexities of life faithfully and for guarding the integrity of our faith.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What voices or sources of information am I currently "hearing" that might be subtly causing me to err from biblical truth or godly wisdom?**
* **How can I more intentionally cultivate a deeper, more intimate understanding of "the words of knowledge" (God's Word) to strengthen my discernment and spiritual foundation?**
* **What practical steps can I take to "cease" from listening to instruction or engaging with content that is not aligned with God's wisdom and revealed truth?**
* **In what specific areas of my life (e.g., finances, relationships, career, worldview) do I need to apply greater discernment regarding the counsel and influences I receive?**

### FAQ
**What does "instruction that causeth to err" specifically refer to?**

Answer: "Instruction that causeth to err" refers to any teaching, advice, counsel, philosophy, or ideology that deviates from or contradicts God's revealed truth. This can encompass a wide range of influences, from explicit false doctrines and heresies that deny core biblical tenets to subtle worldly wisdom, deceptive ideologies, or even well-intentioned but misguided advice that ultimately leads one away from righteous living or sound biblical principles. The phrase emphasizes that such instruction doesn't just lead to a different path, but specifically to "err"—to wander, stray, make a mistake, or fall into moral or spiritual transgression. It's a warning against anything that pulls an individual away from the "words of knowledge," which represent divine wisdom and truth, and instead guides them toward spiritual or moral misdirection.

**How can a modern believer apply Proverbs 19:27 in a world with so much information?**

Answer: In today's information-saturated world, applying Proverbs 19:27 is more critical and challenging than ever. Modern believers must cultivate a robust sense of **discernment** as a primary spiritual discipline. This involves several key practices:
1. **Anchor in Scripture:** Regularly immerse yourself in the Bible, allowing "the words of knowledge" to be your ultimate, unchanging standard for truth. If a message, teaching, or philosophy contradicts Scripture, it should be rejected, as [2 Timothy 3:16](/2_timothy/3-16 "2 Timothy 3:16 - All Scripture is God-breathed") affirms the Bible's divine authority and sufficiency.
2. **Evaluate Sources Critically:** Do not blindly accept information. Critically assess the source of any instruction or teaching. Is it reliable? Does the person or institution have a track record of truthfulness, integrity, and biblical fidelity?
3. **Pray for Wisdom and Discernment:** Humbly ask God for the wisdom and discernment needed to distinguish between truth and error, as promised in [James 1:5](/james/1-5 "James 1:5 - Ask God for Wisdom"). The Holy Spirit guides believers into all truth ([John 16:13](/john/16-13 "John 16:13 - The Spirit of Truth")).
4. **Seek Godly Counsel:** Surround yourself with mature believers, trusted mentors, and biblically sound communities who can offer wise, biblically-aligned advice and accountability.
5. **Be Slow to Believe and Quick to Test:** Don't immediately accept every claim or teaching. Take time to research, reflect, and diligently compare it with God's Word, much like the noble Bereans who "examined the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so" ([Acts 17:11](/acts/17-11 "Acts 17:11 - The Noble Bereans")). This proverb calls for an active, not passive, engagement with the ideas presented to us.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 19:27, with its urgent call to "cease... to hear the instruction that causeth to err from the words of knowledge," finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is not merely a source of knowledge, but the very embodiment of "the words of knowledge" and indeed, **Truth incarnate** ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life")). In a world saturated with misleading voices, deceptive philosophies, and spiritual counterfeits, Christ stands as the singular, unwavering standard of truth. Any instruction, teaching, or worldview that deviates from Him, His teachings, or His person, is precisely the "instruction that causeth to err." The New Testament consistently warns believers against false teachers and doctrines that would lead them astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ ([2 Corinthians 11:3-4](/2_corinthians/11-3-4 "2 Corinthians 11:3-4 - Beware of Deception and False Apostles")). To "cease" from hearing such error is to turn wholeheartedly to Christ, in whom "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - In Christ are Hidden all Treasures of Wisdom and Knowledge")). His words are "spirit and life" ([John 6:63](/john/6-63 "John 6:63 - My Words are Spirit and Life")), providing the only true and unerring instruction that leads to eternal life and genuine wisdom. Therefore, the Christ-centered fulfillment of this proverb is found in discerningly rejecting all that is not Christ, and instead fixing our gaze and our hearing upon Him, the author and perfecter of our faith ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Looking to Jesus")).

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

Mark 4:24

And he said unto them, Take heed what ye hear: with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you: and unto you that hear shall more be given.

1 Timothy 6:3

If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, [even] the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;

1 Timothy 6:5

Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.

Matthew 7:15

¶ Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.

Proverbs 14:7

¶ Go from the presence of a foolish man, when thou perceivest not [in him] the lips of knowledge.

1 John 4:1

¶ Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

2 Corinthians 11:13

For such [are] false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.