Proverbs 13:14

¶ The law of the wise [is] a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.

The law {H8451} of the wise {H2450} is a fountain {H4726} of life {H2416}, to depart {H5493} from the snares {H4170} of death {H4194}.

The teaching of a wise man is a fountain of life, enabling one to avoid deadly traps.

The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, turning one from the snares of death.

The law of the wise is a fountain of life, That one may depart from the snares of death.

Commentary

Proverbs 13:14 states: "The law of the wise [is] a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death." This powerful proverb encapsulates the core message of the book of Proverbs: wisdom leads to life, and folly leads to destruction.

Context

The book of Proverbs is a collection of ancient Israelite wisdom literature, offering practical guidance for daily living rooted in the fear of the Lord. It frequently uses antithetical parallelism, contrasting the path of the righteous (wise) with the path of the wicked (foolish). Proverbs 13:14 fits this pattern by presenting the life-giving benefits of wisdom as a direct opposite to the fatal consequences of foolishness. It speaks to the importance of sound instruction and discernment in navigating life's challenges.

Key Themes

  • Wisdom as a Source of Life: The "law of the wise" refers not just to formal legal codes, but to the instruction, counsel, and principles that come from a person who possesses true wisdom. This wisdom is depicted as a "fountain of life," signifying a continuous, refreshing, and vital source of well-being, spiritual flourishing, and true existence. It is a wellspring that sustains and empowers. This imagery is echoed elsewhere in Scripture, such as when Proverbs 16:22 declares that "understanding is a wellspring of life unto him that hath it."
  • Escaping Death's Traps: The purpose and benefit of this life-giving wisdom is "to depart from the snares of death." "Snares" (Hebrew: moqeshei) refers to traps, nets, or pitfalls, often used by hunters. "Death" (Hebrew: mavet) in this context can mean not only physical demise but also spiritual ruin, moral decay, or a life characterized by suffering and destruction, the antithesis of the "fountain of life." Wisdom provides the foresight and discernment necessary to avoid these perilous traps.
  • The Value of Instruction: The verse underscores the immense value of receiving and adhering to wise instruction. It implies that true wisdom is not merely intellectual knowledge but practical guidance that shapes one's choices and actions, leading to a life free from destructive consequences.

Linguistic Insights

  • The phrase "fountain of life" (Hebrew: mekor chayyim) emphasizes a dynamic, flowing source rather than a stagnant pool. It suggests a continuous supply of vitality and spiritual health derived from living according to wise principles.
  • "Snares of death" (Hebrew: moqshei mavet) vividly portrays the dangers and enticements that lead to destruction. These are not always obvious dangers but often hidden traps that deceive the unwary, highlighting wisdom's role in providing discernment and protection.

Practical Application

Proverbs 13:14 challenges believers to actively seek and embrace wisdom as the guiding principle of their lives. This involves:

  • Heeding Godly Counsel: Listening to and applying the sound advice of those who walk in wisdom, particularly as found in God's Word.
  • Making Wise Choices: Recognizing that daily decisions have long-term consequences. The "law of the wise" empowers us to make choices that lead to flourishing rather than ruin.
  • Cultivating Discernment: Developing the ability to identify and avoid the spiritual, moral, and practical "snares" that can lead to destructive outcomes. Just as Proverbs 2:12 explains, wisdom delivers one from the way of the evil man.

Ultimately, this verse reminds us that true wisdom, grounded in God's truth, is not a restrictive burden but a liberating source of life, offering protection and leading to a path of abundant well-being.

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Cross-References

  • Psalms 18:5 (5 votes)

    The sorrows of hell compassed me about: the snares of death prevented me.

  • Proverbs 10:11 (5 votes)

    ¶ The mouth of a righteous [man is] a well of life: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked.

  • Proverbs 14:27 (4 votes)

    The fear of the LORD [is] a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.

  • Proverbs 16:17 (3 votes)

    ¶ The highway of the upright [is] to depart from evil: he that keepeth his way preserveth his soul.

  • 2 Samuel 22:6 (3 votes)

    The sorrows of hell compassed me about; the snares of death prevented me;

  • 2 Samuel 22:7 (3 votes)

    In my distress I called upon the LORD, and cried to my God: and he did hear my voice out of his temple, and my cry [did enter] into his ears.

  • Psalms 116:3 (3 votes)

    The sorrows of death compassed me, and the pains of hell gat hold upon me: I found trouble and sorrow.