Proverbs 4:3

For I was my father's son, tender and only [beloved] in the sight of my mother.

For I was my father's {H1} son {H1121}, tender {H7390} and only {H3173} beloved in the sight {H6440} of my mother {H517}.

For I too was once a child to my father; and my mother, too, thought of me as her special darling.

When I was a son to my father, tender and the only child of my mother,

For I was a son unto my father, Tender and only beloved in the sight of my mother.

Commentary

Proverbs 4:3 serves as a foundational verse within a powerful exhortation to wisdom, presented by King Solomon to his own son. In this verse, Solomon reflects on his upbringing, establishing his credibility and emphasizing the significant role his parents played in shaping his understanding.

Context

This verse is part of a larger discourse in Proverbs 4 where Solomon, the primary author of much of the book, recounts receiving vital instruction from his father, King David. By stating, "For I was my father's son," Solomon isn't merely identifying his lineage; he's highlighting the profound influence of his parents, particularly David, in imparting the wisdom he now seeks to pass on. The entire chapter emphasizes the paramount importance of acquiring and guarding wisdom, a theme introduced right at the beginning of the chapter (see Proverbs 4:1).

Key Themes

  • Parental Legacy of Wisdom: Solomon underscores that the wisdom he possesses is not self-generated but a precious inheritance passed down through generations. This highlights the biblical principle of parents diligently teaching their children God's ways (Deuteronomy 6:7).
  • The Value of Early Nurturing: The phrase "tender" (ืจึทืšึฐ - rak) suggests youth, vulnerability, and a period of being carefully nurtured. It points to the formative years when a child is most receptive to instruction and guidance.
  • Cherished Position: "and only [beloved] in the sight of my mother" reveals Solomon's unique and cherished status in his mother Bathsheba's eyes. This intimate detail adds a personal touch, underscoring the deep affection and care he received, which likely made him more receptive to parental teaching.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV translation adds "[beloved]" to the phrase "and only," which comes from the Hebrew word ื™ึธื—ึดื™ื“ (yachid). While yachid can mean "only child," in this context, it more broadly conveys a sense of being unique, singular, or especially cherished. It emphasizes Solomon's special place within the family, not necessarily as an only child, but as one uniquely favored or set apart, perhaps referring to his destiny as David's successor and the builder of the Temple.

Practical Application

Proverbs 4:3 offers several insights for believers today:

  • Embrace Godly Instruction: Just as Solomon received and valued his father's teaching, we are called to seek and internalize wisdom, especially from God's Word. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.
  • Value Parental Influence: This verse reminds us of the profound impact parents have on their children. Parents are encouraged to diligently impart spiritual truths and life wisdom. Children are encouraged to honor and receive instruction from their parents (Ephesians 6:1).
  • Cherish Formative Years: The "tender" phase of life is crucial. Investing in the spiritual and moral development of children during their early years yields lasting fruit.
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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 22:5 (4 votes)

    And David said, Solomon my son [is] young and tender, and the house [that is] to be builded for the LORD [must be] exceeding magnifical, of fame and of glory throughout all countries: I will [therefore] now make preparation for it. So David prepared abundantly before his death.

  • Romans 12:16 (3 votes)

    [Be] of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.

  • 1 Chronicles 29:1 (3 votes)

    ยถ Furthermore David the king said unto all the congregation, Solomon my son, whom alone God hath chosen, [is yet] young and tender, and the work [is] great: for the palace [is] not for man, but for the LORD God.

  • 1 Chronicles 3:5 (2 votes)

    And these were born unto him in Jerusalem; Shimea, and Shobab, and Nathan, and Solomon, four, of Bathshua the daughter of Ammiel:

  • 2 Samuel 12:24 (2 votes)

    And David comforted Bathsheba his wife, and went in unto her, and lay with her: and she bare a son, and he called his name Solomon: and the LORD loved him.

  • 2 Samuel 12:25 (2 votes)

    And he sent by the hand of Nathan the prophet; and he called his name Jedidiah, because of the LORD.

  • Zechariah 12:10 (2 votes)

    And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the spirit of grace and of supplications: and they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him, as one mourneth for [his] only [son], and shall be in bitterness for him, as one that is in bitterness for [his] firstborn.