Proverbs 3:21
Proverbs 3:21 in Multiple Translations
My son, do not lose sight of this: Preserve sound judgment and discernment.
¶ My son, let not them depart from thine eyes: keep sound wisdom and discretion:
My son, let them not depart from thine eyes; Keep sound wisdom and discretion:
My son, keep good sense, and do not let wise purpose go from your eyes.
My son, hold on to good judgment and wise decisions—don't let them out of your sight,
My sonne, let not these things depart from thine eyes, but obserue wisdome, and counsell.
My son! let them not turn from thine eyes, Keep thou wisdom and thoughtfulness,
My son, let them not depart from your eyes. Keep sound wisdom and discretion,
My son, let not them depart from thy eyes: keep sound wisdom and discretion:
My son, let not these things depart from thy eyes: keep the law and counsel:
My son, always keep doing things that are right and things that are smart. If you do that,
Berean Amplified Bible — Proverbs 3:21
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Proverbs 3:21 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
בְּ֭נִ/י
אַל
יָלֻ֣זוּ
מֵ/עֵינֶ֑י/ךָ
נְצֹ֥ר
תֻּ֝שִׁיָּ֗ה
וּ/מְזִמָּֽה
בְּ֭נִ/י
bên
H1121
son
N-ms | Suff
אַל
ʼal
H408
not
Part
יָלֻ֣זוּ
lûwz
H3868
be devious
V-Qal-Juss-3mp
מֵ/עֵינֶ֑י/ךָ
ʻayin
H5869
eye
Prep | N-cd | Suff
נְצֹ֥ר
nâtsar
H5341
to watch
V-Qal-Impv-2ms
תֻּ֝שִׁיָּ֗ה
tûwshîyâh
H8454
wisdom
N-fs
וּ/מְזִמָּֽה
mᵉzimmâh
H4209
plot
Conj | N-fs
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Proverbs 3:21
בְּ֭נִ/י
bên
H1121
"son"
N-ms | Suff
In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.
Definition: : child/son
Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.
אַל
ʼal
H408
"not"
Part
Means not or nothing, used to express negation, as in the phrase do not or let not be.
Definition: 1) not, no, nor, neither, nothing (as wish or preference) 1a) do not, let not (with a verb) 1b) let there not be (with a verb understood) 1c) not, no (with substantive) 1d) nothing (as substantive) Aramaic equivalent: al (אַל "not" H0409)
Usage: Occurs in 572 OT verses. KJV: nay, neither, [phrase] never, no, nor, not, nothing (worth), rather than. See also: Genesis 13:8; Joshua 11:6; 1 Chronicles 22:13.
יָלֻ֣זוּ
lûwz
H3868
"be devious"
V-Qal-Juss-3mp
This Hebrew word means to turn aside or be perverse, like departing from what is right. It appears in the Bible to describe someone who goes against God's ways. In the KJV, it is translated as depart, froward, or perverse.
Definition: 1) to depart, turn aside 1a) (Qal) to depart 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to go wrong, go crooked 1b2) devious, perverse (participle) 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to be lost from view 1c2) to become devious
Usage: Occurs in 6 OT verses. KJV: depart, froward, perverse(-ness). See also: Proverbs 2:15; Proverbs 4:21; Proverbs 3:21.
מֵ/עֵינֶ֑י/ךָ
ʻayin
H5869
"eye"
Prep | N-cd | Suff
This word can mean a spring or fountain, but also refers to the eye or a source of something. It is often translated as affliction, outward appearance, or countenance, and is used in various contexts throughout the Bible.
Definition: : eye 1) eye 1a) eye 1a1) of physical eye 1a2) as showing mental qualities 1a3) of mental and spiritual faculties (fig.)
Usage: Occurs in 828 OT verses. KJV: affliction, outward appearance, [phrase] before, [phrase] think best, colour, conceit, [phrase] be content, countenance, [phrase] displease, eye((-brow), (-d), -sight), face, [phrase] favour, fountain, furrow (from the margin), [idiom] him, [phrase] humble, knowledge, look, ([phrase] well), [idiom] me, open(-ly), [phrase] (not) please, presence, [phrase] regard, resemblance, sight, [idiom] thee, [idiom] them, [phrase] think, [idiom] us, well, [idiom] you(-rselves). See also: Genesis 3:5; Exodus 34:9; Deuteronomy 28:67.
נְצֹ֥ר
nâtsar
H5341
"to watch"
V-Qal-Impv-2ms
This word means to watch or guard something, like the Israelites watching over the Passover in Exodus 12:42 or God watching over his people in Psalm 121:4.
Definition: 1) to guard, watch, watch over, keep 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to watch, guard, keep 1a2) to preserve, guard from dangers 1a3) to keep, observe, guard with fidelity 1a4) to guard, keep secret 1a5) to be kept close, be blockaded 1a6) watchman (participle)
Usage: Occurs in 62 OT verses. KJV: besieged, hidden thing, keep(-er, -ing), monument, observe, preserve(-r), subtil, watcher(-man). See also: Exodus 34:7; Proverbs 2:8; Psalms 12:8.
תֻּ֝שִׁיָּ֗ה
tûwshîyâh
H8454
"wisdom"
N-fs
Wisdom, or tushiyah, means support, ability, or understanding, often implying sound knowledge or efficient wisdom. It can also signify success or an undertaking, as seen in KJV translations like enterprise or substance.
Definition: 1) wisdom, sound knowledge, success, sound or efficient wisdom, abiding success 1a) sound or efficient wisdom 1b) abiding success (of the effect of sound wisdom)
Usage: Occurs in 12 OT verses. KJV: enterprise, that which (thing as it) is, substance, (sound) wisdom, working. See also: Job 5:12; Proverbs 2:7; Proverbs 3:21.
וּ/מְזִמָּֽה
mᵉzimmâh
H4209
"plot"
Conj | N-fs
This Hebrew word means a plan or plot, which can be either good or evil. It appears in the Bible as a device, discretion, or intent. In the KJV, it is translated as a wicked device or witty invention.
Definition: 1) purpose, discretion, device, plot 1a) purpose 1b) discretion 1c) devices (evil)
Usage: Occurs in 19 OT verses. KJV: (wicked) device, discretion, intent, witty invention, lewdness, mischievous (device), thought, wickedly. See also: Job 21:27; Proverbs 3:21; Psalms 10:2.
Study Notes — Proverbs 3:21
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Proverbs 3:21 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 3:21
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 3:21
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 3:21
- Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 3:21
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 3:21
- Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 3:21
- Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 3:21
- Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 3:21
- Sermons on Proverbs 3:21
Context — The Blessings of Wisdom
19The LORD founded the earth by wisdom and established the heavens by understanding.
20By His knowledge the watery depths were broken open, and the clouds dripped with dew.
21My son, do not lose sight of this: Preserve sound judgment and discernment.
22They will be life to your soul and adornment to your neck. 23Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Joshua 1:8 | This Book of the Law must not depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in all you do. |
| 2 | Deuteronomy 6:6–9 | These words I am commanding you today are to be upon your hearts. And you shall teach them diligently to your children and speak of them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as reminders on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorposts of your houses and on your gates. |
| 3 | Deuteronomy 32:46–47 | he said to them, “Take to heart all these words I testify among you today, so that you may command your children to carefully follow all the words of this law. For they are not idle words to you, because they are your life, and by them you will live long in the land that you are crossing the Jordan to possess.” |
| 4 | Proverbs 4:21 | Do not lose sight of them; keep them within your heart. |
| 5 | Hebrews 2:1–3 | We must pay closer attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away. For if the message spoken by angels was binding, and every transgression and disobedience received its just punishment, how shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation? This salvation was first announced by the Lord, was confirmed to us by those who heard Him, |
| 6 | Deuteronomy 4:9 | Only be on your guard and diligently watch yourselves, so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen, and so that they do not slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and grandchildren. |
| 7 | 1 John 2:27 | And as for you, the anointing you received from Him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you. But just as His true and genuine anointing teaches you about all things, so remain in Him as you have been taught. |
| 8 | John 8:31 | So He said to the Jews who had believed Him, “If you continue in My word, you are truly My disciples. |
| 9 | John 15:6–7 | If anyone does not remain in Me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers. Such branches are gathered up, thrown into the fire, and burned. If you remain in Me and My words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. |
| 10 | Proverbs 3:1–3 | My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments; for they will add length to your days, years and peace to your life. Never let loving devotion or faithfulness leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. |
Proverbs 3:21 Summary
[This verse is reminding us to always keep sound judgment and discernment in mind, so we can make wise decisions and live a life that honors God. It's like what it says in Proverbs 2:11, that discretion will preserve us and understanding will keep us. By prioritizing sound judgment and discernment, we can avoid many problems and live a life that is pleasing to God, as we see in Proverbs 3:21-23. This means being careful about what we think, say, and do, and seeking God's wisdom to guide us, as the Bible teaches in James 1:5.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to 'not lose sight of this' in Proverbs 3:21?
It means to keep sound judgment and discernment at the forefront of our minds, prioritizing them above other things, as the Bible encourages us to do in other places like Matthew 6:33 and Philippians 4:8.
Why is sound judgment and discernment so important?
Sound judgment and discernment are crucial because they help us navigate life's challenges and make wise decisions, as seen in Proverbs 2:11, where it says that discretion will preserve us and understanding will keep us.
Is this verse only for children, since it says 'My son'?
Although the verse is addressed to 'My son', its message applies to all believers, regardless of age, as we are all called to be wise and discerning, as Jesus teaches in Matthew 10:16.
How can we preserve sound judgment and discernment in our daily lives?
We can preserve sound judgment and discernment by studying God's Word, like in Psalms 119:66, and seeking wisdom from Him, as encouraged in James 1:5.
Reflection Questions
- What are some areas in my life where I need to apply sound judgment and discernment?
- How can I prioritize seeking wisdom and understanding from God, like it says in Proverbs 2:6?
- What are some potential consequences of not preserving sound judgment and discernment, and how can I avoid them?
- In what ways can I ask God for wisdom and discernment, like the Bible teaches in Proverbs 2:1-6?
Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 3:21
My son, let not them depart from thine eyes,.... Meaning not the things done by Wisdom; though it is good to contemplate his works of creation and providence, which serve to set forth the glory of
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 3:21
My son, let not them depart from thine eyes: keep sound wisdom and discretion: My son, let not them depart from thine eyes: keep sound wisdom and discretion. On these last words cf. Proverbs 1:4; Proverbs 2:7, notes.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 3:21
Them, to wit, wisdom and discretion; of which he hath hitherto discoursed, and which are expressed in the end of this verse, and may be referred hither by a figure called trajection; and the words may be put into this order, let not sound wisdom and discretion depart from thine eyes, but keep them diligently. The like trajections are found in other texts of Scripture. From thine eyes, i.e. from the eyes of thy mind. Constantly and seriously meditate upon them, and upon those excellent precepts and rules which proceed from them.
Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 3:21
Proverbs 3:21 My son, let not them depart from thine eyes: keep sound wisdom and discretion:Ver. 21. Let not them depart.] Ne effluant haec ab oculis tuis, saith the Vulgate. Ne haec a tuis oculis deflectant in obliquum huc et illuc; so Mercer. Let the eyes look right on, σκοπουντων, look wistfully and intently on these great works of God, and his wisdom therein set forth and conspicuous, as on a theatre. Eye these things, as the steersman doth the compass, as the archer doth the mark he shoots at, or as the passenger doth his way, which he finds hard to hit, and dangerous to miss. Yea, let them be the delight of thine eyes, with the sight whereof thou canst not be sated or surfeited.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 3:21
Verse 21. Let not them depart from thine eyes] Never forget that God, who is the author of nature, directs and governs it in all things; for it is no self-determining agent. Keep sound wisdom and discretion] תושיה ומזמה tushiyah umezimmah. We have met with both these words before. Tushiyah is the essence or substance of a thing; mezimmah is the resolution or purpose formed in reference to something good or excellent. To acknowledge God as the author of all good, is the tushiyah, the essence, of a godly man's creed; to resolve to act according to the directions of his wisdom, is the mezimmah, the religious purpose, that will bring good to ourselves and glory to God. These bring life to the soul, and are ornamental to the man who acts in this way, Proverbs 3:22.
Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 3:21
Sixth Address. Chap. 3. Proverbs 3:21-3521. let not them] The reference may be to the “sound wisdom and discretion” of the following clause; but it is better perhaps to understand by “them” the precepts already given. The reading of the LXX., μὴπαραρυῇς, is interesting in connection with παραρυῶμεν, Hebrews 2:1, where see notes in this Series and in Dean Vaughan’s Commentary.
Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 3:21
Let not them depart - i. e., The wisdom and discretion of the following clause. Keep thine eye on them, as one who watches over priceless treasures.
Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 3:21
21. The direct address is resumed. The pupil is exhorted by various most desirable considerations to follow after and adhere to wisdom.
Sermons on Proverbs 3:21
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Led by the Spirit of God - Part 5 by Milton Green | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of turning to discipline and reproof. He highlights the need for believers to allow the Spirit of God to control their lives |
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The Substantial Excellency of Spiritual Things by Thomas Watson | Thomas Watson preaches about the substantial excellency of spiritual things, emphasizing the importance of seeking after true substance in Christ and grace. He delves into the qual |
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Matthew 13:47 to 52. the Parable of the Fishing-Net. by Favell Lee Mortimer | Favell Lee Mortimer preaches on the parable of the net cast into the sea, emphasizing the distinctions that will be made at the last day based on true faith. Despite the presence o |
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(1 Peter - Part 18): On Laying Aside Certain Things by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that it is God who infuses the element of eternity into everything. Without God's intervention, mortality and corruptibility are inevitable. |
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(Covenant Word Ministries) Ask and It Shall Be Given You by Keith Daniel | In this sermon, the pastor emphasizes the importance of not just hearing the word of God, but also putting it into action. He challenges the congregation to reflect on what they wi |
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Esther #4 Ch. 8-10 by Chuck Missler | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being diligent and responsible in our actions, rather than using religious excuses for laziness. He uses the examples of Jo |
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The Morning Watch - Part 2 by Oswald J. Smith | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of spending time in both reading the Word of God and praying. He encourages listeners to start their day by immersing themselv |