4:1 4:1

Proverbs 4:2

4:3 4:3

Bible Versions

For I give you good doctrine, forsake ye not my law.
For I give {H5414} you good {H2896} doctrine {H3948}, forsake {H5800} ye not my law {H8451}.
for I am giving you good advice; so don't abandon my teaching.
For I give you sound teaching; do not abandon my directive.
For I give you good doctrine; Forsake ye not my law.

Proverbs 4:2 (KJV): "For I give you good doctrine, forsake ye not my law."

This verse is part of a passionate plea from a father (or wisdom personified) to a son, urging him to value and adhere to the instruction being offered. It immediately follows the opening verses of chapter 4, which set the stage for receiving wisdom.

Context

Proverbs chapter 4 is a strong exhortation to pursue wisdom above all else. The speaker, likely a father, recounts how he himself received instruction from his own father and now passes that vital teaching on to his son. The book of Proverbs often presents wisdom as a path or way of life, and following the 'doctrine' and 'law' presented here is essential for navigating that path successfully and avoiding danger.

Key Themes

  • The Value of Instruction: The verse highlights that the teaching being given is "good doctrine" (or good teaching). It's presented as a precious gift, not a burden.
  • Obedience and Adherence: The core command is "forsake ye not my law." This isn't merely about hearing the instruction but holding onto it, living by it, and not abandoning it.
  • Authoritative Source: The speaker presents their teaching with authority ("I give you") and refers to it as "my law," implying it's a reliable and foundational set of principles, ultimately derived from divine wisdom.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "doctrine" is leqach (לֶקַח), which means 'teaching,' 'instruction,' or 'that which is received.' It emphasizes the process of learning and internalizing truth. The word translated "law" is torah (תּוֹרָה), which is most famously associated with the Law of Moses, but in Proverbs, it often refers more broadly to authoritative instruction, teaching, or guidance, whether from God or from a wise parent/teacher. The phrase "forsake ye not" carries a strong sense of not abandoning or casting aside something valuable.

Reflection

Proverbs 4:2 serves as a foundational principle: value sound teaching and commit to living by it. It's not enough to passively hear wise words; we must actively choose not to abandon them, even when they are challenging. This applies to the wisdom found in the Scriptures, parental guidance, and the teachings of trusted mentors. Just as the father in Proverbs urged his son to get wisdom and understanding, this verse emphasizes the necessity of clinging to the specific instructions that lead to a flourishing life.

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.

  • 1 Timothy 4:6

    ¶ If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.

  • Deuteronomy 32:2

    My doctrine shall drop as the rain, my speech shall distil as the dew, as the small rain upon the tender herb, and as the showers upon the grass:

  • Psalms 89:30

    If his children forsake my law, and walk not in my judgments;

  • Psalms 89:32

    Then will I visit their transgression with the rod, and their iniquity with stripes.

  • Proverbs 8:6

    Hear; for I will speak of excellent things; and the opening of my lips [shall be] right things.

  • Proverbs 8:9

    They [are] all plain to him that understandeth, and right to them that find knowledge.

  • Titus 1:9

    Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.
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