Psalms 34:11

KJV

¶ Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the fear of the LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

Come {H3212}, ye children {H1121}, hearken {H8085} unto me: I will teach {H3925} you the fear {H3374} of the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Come, children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of ADONAI.

Berean Standard Bible

Come, children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD.

American Standard Version

Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the fear of Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 34:11 serves as a pivotal invitation within David's psalm of thanksgiving, shifting from personal testimony to direct instruction. Having experienced divine deliverance, David, as a seasoned sage, calls to those receptive—metaphorically "children" or disciples—to attentively listen and learn. The core of his teaching is "the fear of the LORD," a foundational concept in biblical wisdom literature signifying profound reverence, awe, and obedient submission to God, which is presented as the pathway to true wisdom and a blessed life.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalms 34 is a psalm of individual thanksgiving, attributed to David following his feigned madness before Abimelech (Achish) in [1 Samuel 21:10-15](/1_samuel/21-10 "1 Samuel 21:10-15 - David's Escape from Gath"). The psalm begins with David's personal vow to bless the Lord and magnify His name ([Psalms 34:1-3](/psalms/34-1 "Psalms 34:1-3 - David's Vow of Praise")). He then recounts his own experience of crying out to the Lord and being delivered from all his fears ([Psalms 34:4-6](/psalms/34-4 "Psalms 34:4-6 - David's Personal Deliverance")). Verse 11 marks a significant transition: from a general exhortation to "taste and see that the LORD is good" ([Psalms 34:8](/psalms/34-8 "Psalms 34:8 - Taste and See the Lord's Goodness")) and a call to seek the Lord ([Psalms 34:9-10](/psalms/34-9 "Psalms 34:9-10 - The Lord Provides for Those Who Seek Him")), David now directly invites a specific audience—"ye children"—to receive formal instruction from him. This verse initiates the didactic section of the psalm, where David assumes the role of a wisdom teacher, imparting principles for a righteous and flourishing life.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** David's experience of divine protection and provision, even in a moment of extreme vulnerability and deception, forms the immediate backdrop for his teaching. Having narrowly escaped King Achish of Gath, David's praise is deeply rooted in his personal encounter with God's faithfulness. In ancient Israel, the role of a sage or wisdom teacher was highly esteemed. Such figures, often elders or those with significant life experience, would impart practical and theological wisdom to the younger generation or to those seeking guidance. The concept of "children" (Hebrew: *banim*) in this context likely extends beyond biological offspring to include disciples, pupils, or anyone willing to learn from an experienced mentor. The instruction would typically occur within a familial or community setting, emphasizing the intergenerational transmission of faith and ethical living. The "fear of the LORD" was not merely a theological concept but a practical framework for navigating daily life, ensuring societal order, and maintaining covenant fidelity.
* **Key Themes:** Psalms 34:11 encapsulates several key themes prevalent throughout the Psalter and biblical wisdom literature. Firstly, it highlights the **Invitation to Learn and Discipleship**. David, having personally experienced God's goodness, does not hoard this knowledge but eagerly invites others to partake in it, positioning himself as a spiritual mentor. This reflects a broader biblical pattern of passing on divine truth, as seen in the call to "hearken" (listen and obey) found in [Deuteronomy 6:4](/deuteronomy/6-4 "Deuteronomy 6:4 - The Shema, Hear O Israel"). Secondly, the verse introduces the central theme of **The Fear of the LORD**. This is not a servile dread but a profound reverence, awe, and respectful submission to God's authority, holiness, and power. It is consistently presented in wisdom literature as the "beginning of knowledge" ([Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Knowledge")) and the "beginning of wisdom" ([Proverbs 9:10](/proverbs/9-10 "Proverbs 9:10 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom")). This fear leads to obedience, righteousness, and ultimately, a blessed life. Thirdly, the verse underscores the importance of **Divine Instruction and Wisdom**. David promises to teach, implying that true wisdom is not innate but must be learned and cultivated through intentional listening and adherence to God's revealed will. This teaching is presented as foundational for understanding how to live well and experience God's favor, as further elaborated in the subsequent verses of [Psalms 34](/psalms/34 "Psalms 34 - Praise for God's Deliverance").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Come (Hebrew, _lekhu'_):** This is an imperative verb, a direct command or invitation, literally meaning "go!" or "come!" In this context, it functions as an urgent and welcoming summons. It implies a physical or spiritual movement towards the speaker, signaling a call to gather and receive instruction. It's not a passive suggestion but an active invitation to participate in a learning process.
* **Hearken (Hebrew, _shim'u'_):** Another imperative, meaning "listen!" or "hear!" However, in biblical usage, especially in didactic contexts, *shim'u* implies more than just auditory perception. It demands attentive, obedient listening—listening with the intent to understand, internalize, and act upon what is heard. It carries the weight of serious engagement and a readiness to comply, echoing the foundational call to Israel to "Hear, O Israel" (the Shema) in [Deuteronomy 6:4](/deuteronomy/6-4 "Deuteronomy 6:4 - The Shema, Hear O Israel").
* **Fear of the LORD (Hebrew, _yir'at Yahweh'_):** This is a crucial theological concept. *Yir'ah* (fear) in this phrase does not primarily denote terror or dread, though it encompasses recognition of God's awesome power. Rather, it signifies profound reverence, awe, respect, and humble submission to God's sovereignty, holiness, and moral authority. It is a posture of the heart that acknowledges God's supreme position and responds with worship, obedience, and a desire to please Him. It is the antithesis of self-sufficiency and rebellion, and the foundation for true wisdom and a right relationship with God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"¶ Come, ye children":** This is a warm, direct, and inclusive invitation. The term "children" (Hebrew: *banim*) can refer to literal offspring, but in a wisdom context, it often denotes pupils, disciples, or anyone who is teachable and receptive to instruction, regardless of age. David, as an elder and one who has experienced God's deliverance, positions himself as a fatherly figure or mentor, inviting others into a relationship of learning and spiritual growth. The "¶" symbol in the KJV indicates a new paragraph or section, highlighting this verse as a distinct turning point in the psalm.
* **"hearken unto me":** This phrase emphasizes the necessity of attentive and obedient listening. It's not enough to merely hear the words; one must listen with an open heart and a willingness to absorb and apply the teaching. David is calling for a focused engagement, a readiness to internalize the wisdom he is about to impart, recognizing that true learning requires active participation and submission to the teacher's authority.
* **"I will teach you the fear of the LORD":** This is the core promise and the subject of David's instruction. David is not merely sharing anecdotes but committing to impart foundational spiritual knowledge. "The fear of the LORD" is presented as the most vital lesson, the bedrock of a righteous and blessed life. It encompasses understanding God's character, acknowledging His supreme authority, and living in humble obedience to His commands. This teaching is presented as a deliberate, intentional act by David, underscoring its importance.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 34:11 employs several effective literary devices. The most prominent is **Direct Address**, where David speaks immediately and personally to his audience ("Come, ye children, hearken unto me"). This creates an intimate and urgent tone, drawing the listener directly into the instructional moment. The verse also exhibits a strong **Didactic Tone**, characteristic of wisdom literature. David explicitly states his intention to "teach," positioning himself as a sage imparting essential knowledge. This didacticism is reinforced by the imperative verbs "Come" and "hearken," which are commands for active engagement in the learning process. Furthermore, the use of "children" can be seen as a **Metaphor** for disciples or those who are spiritually young and receptive to instruction, regardless of their chronological age. This metaphor emphasizes the need for humility and a teachable spirit. Finally, the verse demonstrates **Inclusivity** through its broad invitation ("ye children"), suggesting that this foundational wisdom is accessible and necessary for all who desire a right relationship with God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 34:11 is a profound statement on the nature of spiritual education and the centrality of reverence for God. It establishes David not just as a worshiper but as a teacher, underscoring the biblical principle that those who have experienced God's goodness are called to share that truth and wisdom with others. The "fear of the LORD" is consistently presented throughout Scripture as the beginning of all true wisdom and knowledge, transcending mere intellectual understanding to encompass a holistic posture of awe, respect, and obedient submission to God. This reverential fear is not a burden but the pathway to life, blessing, and genuine flourishing, as it aligns one's will with the divine will. It is the antidote to human pride and self-sufficiency, fostering humility and dependence on the Creator.

* [Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Knowledge")
* [Psalm 111:10](/psalms/111-10 "Psalm 111:10 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom")
* [Deuteronomy 6:4-7](/deuteronomy/6-4-7 "Deuteronomy 6:4-7 - The Great Commandment and Instruction")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 34:11 offers a timeless invitation to all who seek a deeper relationship with God and a life marked by wisdom. David's call to "hearken" is a powerful reminder that spiritual growth is not passive; it requires active, attentive listening to God's Word and to the wisdom passed down through faithful teachers. Learning the "fear of the LORD" in our contemporary context means cultivating a profound reverence for God's holiness, power, and love, which naturally leads to a desire to obey His commands and align our lives with His character. It involves diligently studying the Scriptures, seeking understanding through prayer, and submitting our wills to His. This reverential fear frees us from the fear of man and the anxieties of the world, anchoring our lives in the unchanging truth of God. It is the foundation upon which genuine faith, resilient hope, and enduring love are built, enabling us to navigate life's complexities with integrity and grace.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you need to "hearken" more attentively to God's voice and wisdom?**
* **How does your understanding of the "fear of the LORD" impact your daily choices and your relationship with God?**
* **Who are the "children" in your life—those you are called to teach or mentor in the fear of the LORD?**
* **What practical steps can you take this week to deepen your reverence for God and grow in His wisdom?**

### FAQ

**Who are the "children" David is addressing in this verse?**

Answer: While the term "children" (Hebrew: *banim*) can refer to literal young people, in the context of biblical wisdom literature, it often extends metaphorically to include disciples, pupils, or anyone who is teachable and receptive to instruction, regardless of their chronological age. David, as an experienced elder and sage, is inviting anyone willing to learn from his personal experience of God's deliverance and the wisdom he has gained. This invitation is for all who desire spiritual understanding and a right relationship with God, adopting a posture of humility and readiness to learn.

**What does it mean to "fear the LORD" in a biblical sense? Is it about being afraid of God?**

Answer: The "fear of the LORD" (Hebrew: *yir'at Yahweh*) in the Bible does not primarily mean being terrified of God, though it does include a healthy recognition of His immense power and justice. Instead, it signifies a profound reverence, awe, respect, and humble submission to God's holiness, authority, and majesty. It's a loving and obedient fear that recognizes God's supreme position and responds with worship, trust, and a desire to please Him. It is the foundation of true wisdom and knowledge ([Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Knowledge")) and leads to a life of righteousness and blessing, as it prompts obedience and a desire to avoid displeasing Him.

**Why is David teaching about the "fear of the LORD" after his escape from Abimelech?**

Answer: David's experience of feigning madness and being delivered by God ([1 Samuel 21:10-15](/1_samuel/21-10 "1 Samuel 21:10-15 - David's Escape from Gath")) profoundly shaped his understanding of God's faithfulness and sovereignty. Having personally witnessed God's hand in his desperate situation, David's teaching is rooted in lived experience. He recognizes that his deliverance was not due to his own cunning but to God's intervention. Therefore, he calls others to learn the "fear of the LORD" because it is this reverential awe and obedient trust that leads to God's protection and blessing. His teaching is a direct response to his personal testimony, inviting others to find the same security and wisdom he discovered in God.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 34:11, with its call to "Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the fear of the LORD," finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While David was a wise king and a prophet, he was a shadow of the greater Teacher to come. Jesus is the embodiment of divine wisdom, 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")). He is the ultimate Sage who invites all people, regardless of age or background, to become His disciples. His invitation, "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest" ([Matthew 11:28](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28 - Jesus' Invitation to the Weary")), echoes David's call to "Come, ye children." Jesus not only teaches the fear of the LORD but perfectly exemplifies it. He lived a life of complete and humble obedience to the Father, demonstrating the truest form of reverence and submission, even to the point of death on a cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Humiliation and Obedience")). Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus reveals the Father's character and provides the means for humanity to enter into a right relationship with God, thereby truly learning and living out the "fear of the LORD" not merely as a set of rules, but as a loving response to the One who first loved us ([1 John 4:19](/1_john/4-19 "1 John 4:19 - We Love Because He First Loved Us")). He is the one who perfectly "feared God" and through whom we can approach God with both reverence and confidence ([Hebrews 5:7-8](/hebrews/5-7-8 "Hebrews 5:7-8 - Christ's Obedience and Suffering")).

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 1:7

¶ The fear of the LORD [is] the beginning of knowledge: [but] fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Psalms 111:10

The fear of the LORD [is] the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do [his commandments]: his praise endureth for ever.

Proverbs 2:1

¶ My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee;

Proverbs 2:9

Then shalt thou understand righteousness, and judgment, and equity; [yea], every good path.

Psalms 32:8

I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.

Isaiah 28:9

¶ Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? [them that are] weaned from the milk, [and] drawn from the breasts.

Matthew 18:2

And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them,