Question 1

What does Proverbs 6:20 mean?

Accepted Answer

Proverbs 6:20 urges a son to pay careful attention to his father's instructions and not to abandon the teachings of his mother. The verse highlights the importance of listening to both parents and valuing their guidance as something to be kept and not neglected. In the book of Proverbs, a father is speaking to his child, offering wisdom for living well. The verse sets up a pattern seen throughout Proverbs, where both the father's and mother's roles in teaching are honored. The advice is practical, encouraging the listener to hold on to family instruction as a foundation for wise choices.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 6:20

Accepted Answer

"keep" — נָצַר (natsar): This word means to guard, watch over, or preserve. It suggests more than just hearing advice; it calls for actively protecting and holding onto the father's commandment as something valuable. "forsake" — עָזַב (azav): This means to leave behind or abandon. The verse warns against turning away from the mother's law, emphasizing that her teaching should not be disregarded or forgotten. "law" — תּוֹרָה (torah): While often translated as "law," תּוֹרָה (torah) here refers to instruction or teaching, not just legal rules. It highlights the nurturing, guiding role of the mother’s wisdom.

Question 3

Why Proverbs 6:20 matters

Accepted Answer

Proverbs 6:20 shows that wisdom and guidance come from both parents, not just the father, which was significant in a culture where fathers were often seen as the main authority. The verse connects to the broader theme of Proverbs, where listening to wise instruction is the path to a good and safe life. By using strong words like "keep" and "forsake not," the verse stresses that parental guidance is not just helpful advice but something to be treasured and protected.

Proverbs 6:20 (KJV)