Proverbs 6:21 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 6:21 mean?

Proverbs 6:21 urges the reader to keep wise teachings close at all times, both inwardly and outwardly, by saying to "bind them continually upon thine heart, and tie them about thy neck." This verse uses vivid language to stress the importance of making wisdom a constant, personal part of one’s life.

In this part of Proverbs, a father is speaking to his child, encouraging them to hold onto his instructions and teachings. The imagery of binding wisdom to the heart and tying it around the neck suggests that these teachings should be cherished, remembered, and visible in daily life, not just learned and forgotten.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 6:21

• Bind (קָשַׁר, qashar): This word means to tie or fasten securely. The verse uses it to picture wisdom as something to be firmly attached to the heart, showing it should not be easily lost or ignored.
• Continually (תָּמִיד, tamid): This word means always or at all times. It emphasizes that wisdom is not for occasional use but should be kept close every day.
• Heart (לֵב, lev): In Hebrew thought, the heart is the center of thought and will, not just emotion. Binding wisdom to the heart means making it central to one’s decision-making and character.
• Tie (עָנַד, anad): This word means to bind or fasten, often with the sense of adorning. Tying wisdom around the neck suggests making it visible and honored, like a precious ornament.
• Neck (גַּרְגֶּרֶת, gargeret): The neck was seen as a place for displaying valuable items. Wearing wisdom around the neck means it should be evident to others and valued highly.

Why Proverbs 6:21 matters

• Proverbs 6:21 clarifies that wisdom is not just for private reflection but should be both internalized and outwardly displayed in one’s actions and choices.
• The verse connects to the broader theme in Proverbs of passing down wisdom from parent to child, highlighting the generational importance of these teachings.
• By using the imagery of binding and tying, the verse emphasizes that wisdom is meant to be a constant guide, not something to be set aside or forgotten.