Proverbs 23:19

KJV

¶ Hear thou, my son, and be wise, and guide thine heart in the way.

KJV (with Strong's)

Hear {H8085} thou, my son {H1121}, and be wise {H2449}, and guide {H833} thine heart {H3820} in the way {H1870}.

Complete Jewish Bible

You, my son: listen, be wise, and set your mind on the right way

Berean Standard Bible

Listen, my son, and be wise, and guide your heart on the right course.

American Standard Version

Hear thou, my son, and be wise, And guide thy heart in the way.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 23:19 offers a profound and direct appeal from a wise mentor, likely a father, to his son, urging him to embrace wisdom and intentionally direct his innermost being. This verse is a foundational call to cultivate not merely intellectual knowledge, but a deep, practical discernment that shapes one's entire life path. It underscores the critical importance of an internal moral compass, emphasizing that true wisdom manifests in a heart consistently guided towards righteousness, rather than succumbing to the fleeting temptations and follies of the world.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 23:19 is nestled within a significant collection of "Sayings of the Wise" (Proverbs 22:17 – 24:34), which serves as a practical guide for righteous living in covenant with God. This particular verse acts as a central exhortation following a series of specific warnings against various vices, such as gluttony and drunkenness (e.g., [Proverbs 23:1-3](/proverbs/23-1 "Proverbs 23:1-3 - Warning Against Gluttony")) and associating with those given to riotous living (e.g., [Proverbs 23:20-21](/proverbs/23-20 "Proverbs 23:20-21 - Warning Against Drunkenness and Gluttony")). The call to "hear," "be wise," and "guide thine heart" provides the overarching principle for navigating these temptations, establishing that outward conduct is a direct outflow of the inner disposition. It is a plea for internal discipline as the prerequisite for external integrity.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the transmission of wisdom was primarily an intergenerational endeavor, often from father to son or mentor to disciple, reflecting a deeply personal and authoritative pedagogical model. The "son" in this context represents not only a biological heir but any recipient of instruction, emphasizing the intimate and loving nature of the counsel. The concept of the "heart" (`lêb`) in Hebrew thought is far more comprehensive than merely the seat of emotions; it encompasses the totality of a person's inner being—their intellect, will, conscience, and intentions. This holistic understanding of the heart is crucial for grasping the depth of the command to "guide" it, as it implies a deliberate, conscious direction of one's entire inner life toward a prescribed moral and spiritual "way" (`derek`).
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several recurring themes throughout the book of Proverbs and the broader Old Testament. It highlights **The Call to Wisdom**, which is not merely intellectual acuity but a practical, applied discernment rooted in the fear of the LORD, as articulated in [Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the LORD is the Beginning of Knowledge"). Central to this wisdom is the theme of **Guidance of the Heart**, emphasizing that the core of one's being—the `lêb`—must be intentionally directed. This aligns with the imperative to "[Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life](/proverbs/4-23 "Proverbs 4:23 - Guard Your Heart")" found elsewhere in Proverbs. Finally, the verse underscores the importance of **The Righteous "Way,"** portraying life as a journey with distinct paths. The "way" (`derek`) signifies a chosen course of life, a moral direction, or a lifestyle, contrasting sharply with the paths of wickedness and folly described throughout the wisdom literature, such as in [Psalm 1:6](/psalms/1-6 "Psalm 1:6 - The Way of the Righteous vs. The Way of the Ungodly").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Hear (Hebrew, _shâmaʻ'_):** (H8085) This verb signifies far more than mere auditory perception. It implies listening attentively, understanding deeply, and, most critically, obeying. In biblical usage, to "hear" God's word is to receive it with a disposition of compliance and action, allowing it to shape one's inner and outer life. It is the foundational act of receptivity to wisdom.
* **wise (Hebrew, _châkam'_):** (H2449) This root verb means "to be wise" in mind, word, or act. Biblical wisdom (`chokmah`) is not abstract knowledge but practical skill in living righteously and successfully according according to divine principles. To "be wise" is to apply God's truth to daily decisions, demonstrating discernment and ethical integrity.
* **heart (Hebrew, _lêb'_):** (H3820) In Hebrew anthropology, the "heart" is the comprehensive center of a person's being. It encompasses the intellect (thoughts, understanding), the will (decisions, intentions), and the emotions (feelings, desires). It is the core from which all actions, good or bad, originate. Guiding the heart, therefore, means directing one's entire inner life.
* **way (Hebrew, _derek'_):** (H1870) This noun refers to a road or path, but figuratively, it denotes a course of life, a mode of action, or a moral direction. It represents one's chosen lifestyle and the trajectory of their existence. To guide one's heart in "the way" means to align one's inner motivations and intentions with the path of righteousness and God's revealed will.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Hear thou, my son":** This opening imperative establishes the tone of earnest, authoritative, yet loving instruction. The phrase "my son" highlights the intimate, paternal relationship between the instructor and the recipient, emphasizing the personal investment and deep concern behind the counsel. The command "Hear" (`shâmaʻ`) is a call to attentive listening that leads to understanding and, ultimately, obedience.
* **"and be wise":** This is a direct command to cultivate and embody practical wisdom. It's not merely about accumulating knowledge, but about developing the skill and discernment to apply divine truth to one's life. It implies a transformation of character that enables one to make righteous choices and live skillfully in God's world.
* **"and guide thine heart in the way":** This is the central and most profound exhortation. To "guide" (`ʼâshar`) means to make straight, to lead, or to direct. The "heart" (`lêb`), as the core of one's being, is to be intentionally steered. "The way" (`derek`) refers to the path of righteousness, God's prescribed moral and spiritual course for life. This clause calls for active, conscious self-governance, ensuring that one's deepest thoughts, desires, and intentions are consistently aligned with God's will, preventing deviation into folly or sin.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 23:19 employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message. The predominant device is the **Imperative Mood**, seen in the direct commands "Hear," "be wise," and "guide." These commands underscore the urgency and non-negotiable nature of the instruction, demanding an active response from the listener. The phrase "my son" functions as a form of **Paternal Address**, establishing a tone of loving authority and personal investment, typical of wisdom literature. The term "way" is a potent **Metaphor** for a course of life or moral conduct. It vividly portrays life as a journey with distinct paths, urging the son to choose and remain on the righteous one. Furthermore, the use of "heart" is an example of **Synecdoche**, where a part (the heart) represents the whole person's inner life—intellect, will, and emotions—emphasizing that true guidance must begin at the very core of one's being.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 23:19 profoundly connects to the broader biblical narrative by emphasizing the internal disposition as the wellspring of all life. This verse resonates with the covenantal call for Israel to love the LORD with all their heart, soul, and might, understanding that true obedience flows from an inner commitment. The wisdom it advocates is not merely human sagacity but divine wisdom, rooted in the character of God and revealed through His commands. The "way" to which the heart must be guided is ultimately God's way, the path of righteousness that leads to life and flourishing, contrasting sharply with the "way of the wicked" that leads to destruction. This internal focus anticipates the New Covenant emphasis on the transformation of the heart by God's Spirit, making obedience possible from within.

* [Deuteronomy 6:4-6](/deuteronomy/6-4 "Deuteronomy 6:4-6 - The Shema and Loving God with All Your Heart")
* [Psalm 119:105](/psalms/119-105 "Psalm 119:105 - Your Word is a Lamp to My Feet")
* [Jeremiah 17:9-10](/jeremiah/17-9 "Jeremiah 17:9-10 - The Deceitfulness of the Heart")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 23:19 remains profoundly relevant for believers today, serving as a timeless reminder that our external actions are a direct reflection of our internal state. It challenges us to move beyond superficial compliance to a deep, intentional cultivation of our inner lives. To "hear" God's voice in a noisy world requires deliberate attentiveness to His Word and Spirit, not just passive reception. To "be wise" means actively applying biblical truth to every decision, seeking discernment in a complex moral landscape. Most critically, to "guide thine heart in the way" calls for constant vigilance and intentional direction of our thoughts, desires, and motivations. This involves prayer, meditation on Scripture, accountability, and a conscious turning away from paths that diverge from God's righteous "way." This verse urges us to prioritize the spiritual discipline of the heart, knowing that a heart aligned with God's truth will naturally lead to a life that honors Him and blesses others.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways do I actively "hear" God's voice in my daily life, and how might I cultivate deeper attentiveness?**
* **What specific areas of my life require more practical wisdom, and how can I seek God's guidance in those areas?**
* **What are the primary influences that attempt to "guide" my heart away from God's "way," and how can I guard against them?**
* **What practical steps can I take this week to more intentionally "guide my heart" towards righteousness?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of "my son" in Proverbs?**

Answer: The address "my son" is a common and highly significant feature throughout the book of Proverbs. It signifies a deeply personal, loving, and authoritative relationship between the instructor (often a father or wise mentor) and the recipient of the wisdom. This paternal address emphasizes that the wisdom imparted is not merely abstract knowledge but vital, life-shaping counsel given with genuine care and concern for the "son's" well-being and flourishing. It underscores the intergenerational transmission of truth and the importance of heeding the wisdom of elders.

**What does "guide thine heart in the way" truly mean?**

Answer: "Guide thine heart in the way" is a powerful exhortation to intentional self-governance and moral alignment. The "heart" (`lêb`) in Hebrew thought represents the totality of one's inner being—intellect, will, emotions, and conscience. To "guide" it means to actively direct, steer, or make straight. "The way" (`derek`) refers to a course of life, a moral path, or a lifestyle. Therefore, the phrase means to consciously and deliberately align one's deepest thoughts, desires, and intentions with God's righteous path, preventing them from straying into folly, sin, or destructive patterns of behavior. It's a call to internal discipline that shapes external conduct.

**Is "wisdom" in Proverbs just about being smart?**

Answer: No, "wisdom" in Proverbs (Hebrew: `chokmah`) is far more than mere intellectual intelligence or cleverness. While it certainly encompasses discernment and understanding, biblical wisdom is primarily practical and ethical. It is the skill of living life successfully and righteously in accordance with God's revealed will. It involves applying divine truth to everyday situations, making choices that honor God, and navigating the complexities of life with integrity and prudence. As [Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the LORD is the Beginning of Knowledge") states, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction." True wisdom is rooted in a right relationship with God and manifests in righteous living.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 23:19 finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Jesus Christ. The call to "hear" and "be wise" points to Christ, who is the very embodiment of divine wisdom, as [1 Corinthians 1:30](/1_corinthians/1-30 "1 Corinthians 1:30 - Christ, Our Wisdom") declares, "But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption." He is the perfect "Son" who perfectly heard and obeyed the Father. Furthermore, the command to "guide thine heart in the way" is perfectly exemplified by Jesus, whose heart and will were always perfectly aligned with the Father's, even to the point of death on the cross. He taught extensively on the heart being the source of actions, as seen in [Matthew 15:18-19](/matthew/15-18 "Matthew 15:18-19 - What Comes Out of the Heart"), emphasizing that true righteousness flows from an inner transformation. Most significantly, Jesus is not just one who guides His heart in "the way," but He *is* "the Way" itself, as stated in [John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life"). Through His atoning work and the indwelling Holy Spirit, believers are given a new heart (foreshadowed in [Ezekiel 36:26-27](/ezekiel/36-26 "Ezekiel 36:26-27 - A New Heart and New Spirit")), enabling them to truly hear, be wise, and walk in His righteous "way," fulfilling the very essence of this Proverbial instruction by the power of God's grace, not merely human effort (cf. [Romans 8:4](/romans/8-4 "Romans 8:4 - Walking According to the Spirit")).

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 23:26

My son, give me thine heart, and let thine eyes observe my ways.

Proverbs 4:10

Hear, O my son, and receive my sayings; and the years of thy life shall be many.

Proverbs 4:23

Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it [are] the issues of life.

Proverbs 6:6

¶ Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:

Proverbs 23:12

¶ Apply thine heart unto instruction, and thine ears to the words of knowledge.

Proverbs 9:6

Forsake the foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding.