Proverbs 3:21

KJV

¶ My son, let not them depart from thine eyes: keep sound wisdom and discretion:

KJV (with Strong's)

My son {H1121}, let not them depart {H3868} from thine eyes {H5869}: keep {H5341} sound wisdom {H8454} and discretion {H4209}:

Complete Jewish Bible

My son, don't let these slip from your sight; preserve common sense and discretion;

Berean Standard Bible

My son, do not lose sight of this: Preserve sound judgment and discernment.

American Standard Version

My son, let them not depart from thine eyes; Keep sound wisdom and discretion:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 3:21 delivers a profound and urgent exhortation from a father to his son, emphasizing the continuous and active retention of divine wisdom and discernment. It mandates a perpetual vigilance over "sound wisdom" and "discretion," urging that these vital virtues remain ever-present in one's consciousness and guiding principles for daily life. This verse underscores that the blessings and security promised to the wise are contingent upon an ongoing, diligent commitment to internalizing and applying God's truth, ensuring it never departs from one's perspective or practical conduct.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 3:21 functions as a pivotal injunction within a larger, cohesive instructional unit spanning [Proverbs 3:1-20](/proverbs/3-1-20 "Proverbs 3:1-20 - The Blessings of Wisdom and Trust"). The preceding verses meticulously detail the immeasurable value and manifold benefits of embracing wisdom, trusting in the Lord with all one's heart, and obediently following His commands. The father has already extolled wisdom as more precious than "rubies" ([Proverbs 3:15](/proverbs/3-15 "Proverbs 3:15 - Wisdom's Value")) and a "tree of life" ([Proverbs 3:18](/proverbs/3-18 "Proverbs 3:18 - Wisdom as a Tree of Life")). Verse 21 marks a crucial transition, shifting from the *acquisition* and *praise* of wisdom to the imperative of its *retention* and *continuous application*. It stresses that merely possessing wisdom is insufficient; one must actively prevent it from departing from conscious awareness and practical living, thereby setting the stage for subsequent warnings against evil and promises of security for the wise ([Proverbs 3:23-26](/proverbs/3-23-26 "Proverbs 3:23-26 - Security and Confidence for the Wise")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of Proverbs is deeply rooted in the ancient Near Eastern wisdom tradition, where the instruction of a father (or sage) to a son was a foundational pedagogical framework. This familial setting highlights the deeply personal, relational, and intergenerational nature of the teaching. Wisdom in this context was not merely abstract intellectual knowledge but practical insight essential for navigating life's complexities, fostering social harmony, ensuring personal well-being, and securing divine favor. The emphasis on "eyes" (Hebrew _ʻayin_) suggests a culture where visual perception and constant awareness were paramount for safety, discernment, and successful navigation of both physical and social landscapes. The call to "keep" (Hebrew _nâtsar_) wisdom aligns with the broader biblical emphasis on internalizing and actively living out divine truth, as powerfully exemplified in the commands to write God's laws on one's heart and doorposts ([Deuteronomy 6:6-9](/deuteronomy/6-6-9 "Deuteronomy 6:6-9 - Teaching God's Commands to Your Children")).
* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 3:21 powerfully reinforces several overarching themes central to the book of Proverbs. Firstly, the **Retention of Wisdom** is paramount; it is not enough to gain wisdom; it must be diligently guarded and kept in constant view. This speaks to the ongoing, active effort required to live a life consistently guided by divine principles. Secondly, **Practical Wisdom** is highlighted through the term "sound wisdom," emphasizing insight that is robust, reliable, and leads to successful, righteous outcomes in daily life, distinguishing it from mere theoretical knowledge. This aligns with Proverbs' pragmatic approach to godliness, where truth is applied to every sphere of existence. Thirdly, **Discretion** (good judgment and discernment) is presented as an essential component of wise living, enabling one to make discerning choices, avoid pitfalls, and navigate complex situations with prudence. These themes collectively stress the dynamic, applied nature of wisdom, which promises a life of security, peace, and divine favor for those who consistently uphold it ([Proverbs 3:16-17](/proverbs/3-16-17 "Proverbs 3:16-17 - The Blessings of Wisdom")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **son (Hebrew, _bên'_):** From a root meaning "to build," this term signifies a son as a builder of the family name, encompassing literal and figurative relationships, including offspring, subject, or even a quality. In this context, "My son" establishes the intimate, pedagogical relationship between the instructor (father/sage) and the recipient of wisdom, emphasizing a tender, authoritative, and deeply personal appeal for the well-being of the beloved.
* **depart (Hebrew, _lûwz'_):** A primitive root meaning "to turn aside," "to depart," or figuratively, "to be perverse." Here, it carries the strong implication of deviation or straying from the path of wisdom. The imperative "let not them depart" is a direct command to prevent any turning away or wandering from the principles of sound wisdom and discretion, highlighting the active vigilance required to maintain one's course.
* **eyes (Hebrew, _ʻayin'_):** Literally "an eye," this term often functions metaphorically in Hebrew to represent perception, understanding, awareness, and the seat of one's attention or affection. To "let not them depart from thine eyes" implies keeping wisdom and discretion constantly in one's mental and spiritual sight, ensuring they are the guiding principles that shape one's worldview, decisions, and actions. It signifies a profound, continuous awareness and focus.
* **sound wisdom (Hebrew, _tûwshîyâh'_):** From a root meaning "to substantiate," this term refers to "support," "ability," "an undertaking," or "understanding." It denotes wisdom that is substantial, effective, and leads to practical, successful outcomes. It is not abstract knowledge but a robust, reliable insight that provides stability and enables effective working or enterprise, speaking to wisdom that is firm, well-founded, and yields positive results.
* **discretion (Hebrew, _mᵉzimmâh'_):** While sometimes used negatively for "evil machination," here it carries the positive connotation of "a plan," "sagacity," or "good judgment." It refers to the ability to devise and execute sound strategies, indicating prudence, careful consideration, and the capacity to distinguish between right and wrong, leading to wise and thoughtful conduct.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"My son,"**: This opening phrase sets the tone of the instruction as personal, loving, and authoritative. It underscores the deep familial bond and the earnest desire of the instructor for the well-being and flourishing of the one being taught.
* **"let not them depart from thine eyes:"**: This is a strong negative imperative, urging continuous vigilance and active retention. "Them" refers to the previously mentioned virtues and blessings of wisdom (Proverbs 3:1-20). To "depart from thine eyes" means to lose sight of, forget, or cease to prioritize these truths. The command is to actively prevent wisdom from becoming distant or irrelevant, emphasizing constant awareness and focus.
* **"keep sound wisdom and discretion:"**: This is a direct, positive imperative that complements the preceding negative command. "Keep" (Hebrew _nâtsar_) means to guard, protect, maintain, or observe diligently. "Sound wisdom" refers to robust, practical insight that leads to effective living, while "discretion" signifies good judgment and the ability to make discerning choices. Together, these are the specific virtues the son is commanded to actively retain, apply, and preserve.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 3:21 employs several effective literary devices to convey its urgent message. The most prominent is the **Imperative Mood**, seen in "let not them depart" and "keep," which conveys the directness, urgency, and non-negotiable nature of the father's instruction, demanding immediate and continuous action from the son. There is also a powerful **Metaphor** in "depart from thine eyes," where the physical act of seeing is used to represent mental and spiritual awareness and retention. It suggests that wisdom should be as constantly present and guiding as one's physical eyesight, shaping one's perspective and actions. The verse also exhibits a form of **Parallelism**, specifically **Synonymous Parallelism**, where "sound wisdom" and "discretion" are presented as complementary virtues that should both be "kept," reinforcing the multi-faceted and comprehensive nature of true wisdom. Furthermore, the subtle use of **Personification** imbues "wisdom" and "discretion" with an active presence that can either "depart" or be "kept," making them tangible entities that require human interaction, guardianship, and active engagement.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 3:21 deeply resonates with the broader biblical emphasis on the transformative power of God's wisdom and humanity's responsibility to actively embrace and apply it. It underscores that divine truth is not merely for intellectual assent but for practical living, shaping one's character, conduct, and worldview. This continuous "keeping" of wisdom and discretion is presented as foundational for a life of integrity, security, and divine favor, implicitly connecting to the concept of covenant faithfulness, where adherence to God's ways leads to blessing, while deviation leads to peril. The passage highlights the ongoing spiritual discipline required to walk in the light of God's revealed will, preventing the subtle erosion of truth from one's heart and mind and ensuring a life aligned with His righteous standards.

* [Deuteronomy 4:9](/deuteronomy/4-9 "Do Not Forget God's Commands")
* [Psalm 119:11](/psalm/119-11 "Hiding God's Word in the Heart")
* [Philippians 4:8](/philippians/4-8 "Thinking on True and Noble Things")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 3:21 is a timeless call to intentional and disciplined living, profoundly relevant in a world saturated with distractions and competing ideologies. The imperative to "let not them depart from thine eyes" challenges us to actively cultivate a mindset where God's wisdom and discerning judgment are not merely abstract concepts but the ever-present lenses through which we perceive reality, make decisions, and interact with others. This requires daily, conscious engagement with Scripture, fervent prayer for discernment, and a deliberate effort to apply biblical principles to every facet of our lives—our relationships, work, finances, and leisure. It serves as a powerful reminder that spiritual maturity isn't solely about accumulating knowledge, but about consistently walking in the light of the truth we possess, allowing it to shape our character and guide our steps. By doing so, we experience the profound peace, security, and flourishing that accompany a life lived in alignment with divine wisdom, demonstrating its practical power in our daily existence.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What are the "them" (the principles of wisdom and discretion) that I am currently allowing to depart from my "eyes" or conscious attention?**
* **In what specific areas of my life do I need to more diligently "keep" sound wisdom and discretion, guarding against complacency or compromise?**
* **How can I cultivate a more consistent practice of keeping God's wisdom at the forefront of my thoughts and decisions daily, making it my primary guide?**
* **What practical steps can I take to improve my discernment and judgment in complex situations, ensuring my choices reflect godly wisdom?**

### FAQ
**What does "let not them depart from thine eyes" mean in a practical sense?**

Answer: Practically, "let not them depart from thine eyes" means to keep wisdom and discretion constantly in your conscious awareness and focus. It's an exhortation to prevent these virtues from fading into the background of your mind or being forgotten amidst daily concerns. This involves actively recalling and applying biblical principles, using them as your primary lens for understanding the world and making decisions. It implies a continuous, intentional effort to live out what you know to be true and wise, ensuring that your actions are always informed by sound judgment and divine insight, rather than impulsivity or worldly pressures. It's about living mindfully, with wisdom as your guiding star, much like keeping your eyes on a destination to stay on course, as seen in the broader call to meditate on God's law day and night in [Psalm 1:2](/psalm/1-2 "Delight in God's Law").

**How does "sound wisdom" differ from general knowledge or intelligence?**

Answer: While general knowledge and intelligence relate to accumulating facts and cognitive ability, "sound wisdom" (Hebrew _tûwshîyâh_) in [Proverbs 3:21](/proverbs/3-21 "Keep Sound Wisdom and Discretion") refers to a deeper, more practical, and morally grounded insight. It's not just knowing *what* is true, but knowing *how* to apply truth effectively and righteously in real-life situations. It implies a wisdom that is robust, reliable, and leads to beneficial, stable outcomes. Unlike mere intelligence, which can be used for good or ill, sound wisdom is inherently aligned with God's character and purposes, leading to a life of integrity and flourishing. It's the ability to discern the best course of action, make prudent decisions, and live in a way that honors God and benefits others, often involving spiritual discernment beyond purely intellectual capacity, akin to the wisdom sought by Solomon in [1 Kings 3:9](/1_kings/3-9 "Solomon's Request for Wisdom").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 3:21 finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is the very embodiment of "sound wisdom and discretion." The New Testament unequivocally reveals Jesus not merely as a wise teacher, but as **Wisdom Incarnate** ([1 Corinthians 1:24](/1_corinthians/1-24 "Christ, the Power and Wisdom of God")). He perfectly lived out the principles of sound wisdom and discretion, always discerning the Father's will and acting with flawless judgment and insight ([John 5:19](/john/5-19 "Jesus Does What He Sees the Father Doing")). Where humanity consistently struggles to "keep" wisdom from departing, Jesus consistently manifested it in His every word and deed, demonstrating unparalleled insight into human nature and divine truth. For believers, the call to "keep sound wisdom and discretion" is realized by fixing our "eyes" on Christ Himself, for in Him "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Treasures of Wisdom in Christ")). By abiding in Him and allowing His Spirit to guide us into all truth ([John 16:13](/john/16-13 "The Spirit of Truth")), we partake in His wisdom, enabling us to live lives marked by the very discretion and sound judgment that Proverbs commends, reflecting the character of the One who is "our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption" ([1 Corinthians 1:30](/1_corinthians/1-30 "Christ Our Wisdom")).

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

Joshua 1:8

This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.

Deuteronomy 6:6

And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart:

Deuteronomy 6:9

And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates.

Deuteronomy 32:46

And he said unto them, Set your hearts unto all the words which I testify among you this day, which ye shall command your children to observe to do, all the words of this law.

Deuteronomy 32:47

For it [is] not a vain thing for you; because it [is] your life: and through this thing ye shall prolong [your] days in the land, whither ye go over Jordan to possess it.

Proverbs 4:21

Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart.

Hebrews 2:1

¶ Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let [them] slip.