Proverbs 5:13 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 5:13 mean?

Proverbs 5:13 expresses regret over ignoring wise advice, saying, “And have not obeyed the voice of my teachers, nor inclined mine ear to them that instructed me!” The verse shows someone looking back and realizing they failed to listen to those who tried to guide them.

In this verse, the speaker is reflecting on their own choices, admitting they did not pay attention to the warnings and lessons given by their teachers. The setting is a personal confession, likely from the perspective of a young person who has ignored wisdom and now faces the consequences. The verse highlights the pain of realizing too late the value of good instruction.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 5:13

• “Obeyed” (שָׁמַע, shamaʿ) means to listen with the intent to follow or act. Here, it emphasizes not just hearing advice but actually responding to it, which the speaker failed to do.
• “Voice” (קוֹל, qol) refers to the sound or message of the teachers. This word highlights that the guidance was clear and available, not hidden or subtle.
• “Teachers” (יוֹרֶה, yoreh) comes from a word meaning to instruct or point out the way. It suggests people who actively tried to guide the speaker in the right direction.
• “Inclined” (נָטָה, natah) means to stretch out or turn toward. Not inclining the ear means the speaker did not even make the effort to pay attention.
• “Ear” (אֹזֶן, ozen) is often used in Hebrew as a symbol for willingness to listen and learn.
• “Instructed” (לָמַד, lamad) means to teach or train, often with the idea of repeated lessons or discipline.

Why Proverbs 5:13 matters

• Proverbs 5:13 clears up the idea that wisdom is hidden or unavailable; the verse shows that guidance was given, but the problem was a refusal to listen.
• The verse emphasizes personal responsibility, highlighting that ignoring wise voices leads to regret.
• Within the wider passage, this verse is part of a warning against ignoring wisdom, especially in the context of avoiding destructive choices. It shows that regret often comes from willfully closing one’s ears to good advice.