Proverbs 4:10
Proverbs 4:10 in Multiple Translations
Listen, my son, and receive my words, and the years of your life will be many.
Hear, O my son, and receive my sayings; and the years of thy life shall be many.
Hear, O my son, and receive my sayings; And the years of thy life shall be many.
Give ear, O my son, and let your heart be open to my sayings; and long life will be yours.
Listen, my son, if you accept what I tell you, then you will live a long life.
Heare, my sonne, and receiue my wordes, and the yeeres of thy life shalbe many.
Hear, my son, and receive my sayings, And years of life [are] multiplied to thee.
Listen, my son, and receive my sayings. The years of your life will be many.
Hear, O my son, and receive my sayings; and the years of thy life shall be many.
Hear, O my son, and receive my words, that years of life may be multiplied to thee.
So now I say, “My son, heed what I say. If you do that, you will live a good long life.
Berean Amplified Bible — Proverbs 4:10
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 4:10 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
שְׁמַ֣ע
בְּ֭נִ/י
וְ/קַ֣ח
אֲמָרָ֑/י
וְ/יִרְבּ֥וּ
לְ֝/ךָ֗
שְׁנ֣וֹת
חַיִּֽים
שְׁמַ֣ע
shâmaʻ
H8085
to hear
V-Qal-Impv-2ms
בְּ֭נִ/י
bên
H1121
son
N-ms | Suff
וְ/קַ֣ח
lâqach
H3947
to take
Conj | V-Qal-Impv-2ms
אֲמָרָ֑/י
ʼêmer
H561
word
N-mp | Suff
וְ/יִרְבּ֥וּ
râbâh
H7235
to multiply
Conj | V-Qal-Imperf-3mp
לְ֝/ךָ֗
Prep | Suff
שְׁנ֣וֹת
shâneh
H8141
year
N-fp
חַיִּֽים
chay
H2416
alive
N-mp
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
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Hebrew Word Reference — Proverbs 4:10
שְׁמַ֣ע
shâmaʻ
H8085
"to hear"
V-Qal-Impv-2ms
To hear and listen is what this Hebrew word means, often implying attention and obedience. In Exodus and Deuteronomy, it is used when God speaks to the people, and they must listen and obey.
Definition: : hear v 1) to hear, listen to, obey 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to hear (perceive by ear) 1a2) to hear of or concerning 1a3) to hear (have power to hear) 1a4) to hear with attention or interest, listen to 1a5) to understand (language) 1a6) to hear (of judicial cases) 1a7) to listen, give heed 1a7a) to consent, agree 1a7b) to grant request 1a8) to listen to, yield to 1a9) to obey, be obedient 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be heard (of voice or sound) 1b2) to be heard of 1b3) to be regarded, be obeyed 1c) (Piel) to cause to hear, call to hear, summon 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to hear, tell, proclaim, utter a sound 1d2) to sound aloud (musical term) 1d3) to make proclamation, summon 1d4) to cause to be heard n m 2) sound
Usage: Occurs in 1072 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] attentively, call (gather) together, [idiom] carefully, [idiom] certainly, consent, consider, be content, declare, [idiom] diligently, discern, give ear, (cause to, let, make to) hear(-ken, tell), [idiom] indeed, listen, make (a) noise, (be) obedient, obey, perceive, (make a) proclaim(-ation), publish, regard, report, shew (forth), (make a) sound, [idiom] surely, tell, understand, whosoever (heareth), witness. See also: Genesis 3:8; Exodus 32:18; Deuteronomy 27:9.
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.
וְ/קַ֣ח
lâqach
H3947
"to take"
Conj | V-Qal-Impv-2ms
This Hebrew word means to take or get something, and it is used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to take a wife, to take possession of something, or to receive a gift. For example, in Genesis 2:22, God takes a rib from Adam to create Eve.
Definition: : take 1) to take, get, fetch, lay hold of, seize, receive, acquire, buy, bring, marry, take a wife, snatch, take away 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to take, take in the hand 1a2) to take and carry along 1a3) to take from, take out of, take, carry away, take away 1a4) to take to or for a person, procure, get, take possession of, select, choose, take in marriage, receive, accept 1a5) to take up or upon, put upon 1a6) to fetch 1a7) to take, lead, conduct 1a8) to take, capture, seize 1a9) to take, carry off 1a10) to take (vengeance) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be captured 1b2) to be taken away, be removed 1b3) to be taken, brought unto 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to be taken from or out of 1c2) to be stolen from 1c3) to be taken captive 1c4) to be taken away, be removed 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be taken unto, be brought unto 1d2) to be taken out of 1d3) to be taken away 1e) (Hithpael) 1e1) to take hold of oneself 1e2) to flash about (of lightning)
Usage: Occurs in 909 OT verses. KJV: accept, bring, buy, carry away, drawn, fetch, get, infold, [idiom] many, mingle, place, receive(-ing), reserve, seize, send for, take (away, -ing, up), use, win. See also: Genesis 2:15; Genesis 34:17; Exodus 30:23.
אֲמָרָ֑/י
ʼêmer
H561
"word"
N-mp | Suff
This Hebrew word refers to a word or speech, like a promise or command from God. It is used in books like Genesis and Exodus to describe God's conversations with people.
Definition: utterance, speech, word, saying, promise, command
Usage: Occurs in 47 OT verses. KJV: answer, [idiom] appointed unto him, saying, speech, word. See also: Genesis 49:21; Psalms 141:6; Psalms 5:2.
וְ/יִרְבּ֥וּ
râbâh
H7235
"to multiply"
Conj | V-Qal-Imperf-3mp
This word means to increase or grow, like a plant shooting up. It is used in the Bible to describe something getting bigger or more abundant. The KJV translates it as abundance or bring up.
Definition: 1) be or become great, be or become many, be or become much, be or become numerous 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to become many, become numerous, multiply (of people, animals, things) 1a2) to be or grow great 1b) (Piel) to make large, enlarge, increase, become many 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to make much, make many, have many 1c1a) to multiply, increase 1c1b) to make much to do, do much in respect of, transgress greatly 1c1c) to increase greatly or exceedingly 1c2) to make great, enlarge, do much Aramaic equivalent: re.vah (רְבָה "to grow great" H7236)
Usage: Occurs in 215 OT verses. KJV: (bring in) abundance ([idiom] -antly), [phrase] archer (by mistake for H7232 (רָבַב)), be in authority, bring up, [idiom] continue, enlarge, excel, exceeding(-ly), be full of, (be, make) great(-er, -ly, [idiom] -ness), grow up, heap, increase, be long, (be, give, have, make, use) many (a time), (any, be, give, give the, have) more (in number), (ask, be, be so, gather, over, take, yield) much (greater, more), (make to) multiply, nourish, plenty(-eous), [idiom] process (of time), sore, store, thoroughly, very. See also: Genesis 1:22; 2 Chronicles 33:6; Psalms 16:4.
לְ֝/ךָ֗
""
Prep | Suff
שְׁנ֣וֹת
shâneh
H8141
"year"
N-fp
This word also means a year, like when Abraham was 100 years old in Genesis 21. It is used to describe a period of time, age, or a lifetime.
Definition: 1) year 1a) as division of time 1b) as measure of time 1c) as indication of age 1d) a lifetime (of years of life) Aramaic equivalent: she.nah (שְׁנָה "year" H8140)
Usage: Occurs in 647 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] whole age, [idiom] long, [phrase] old, year([idiom] -ly). See also: Genesis 1:14; Genesis 47:28; Numbers 7:35.
חַיִּֽים
chay
H2416
"alive"
N-mp
In the Bible, this word means life or being alive. It can refer to physical life, like in Genesis 1:20, or spiritual life, like in Psalm 30:5.
Definition: adj 1) living, alive 1a) green (of vegetation) 1b) flowing, fresh (of water) 1c) lively, active (of man) 1d) reviving (of the springtime) Aramaic equivalent: chay (חַי "living" H2417)
Usage: Occurs in 450 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] age, alive, appetite, (wild) beast, company, congregation, life(-time), live(-ly), living (creature, thing), maintenance, [phrase] merry, multitude, [phrase] (be) old, quick, raw, running, springing, troop. See also: Genesis 1:20; Deuteronomy 4:9; 2 Kings 5:16.
Study Notes — Proverbs 4:10
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Proverbs 4:10 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 4:10
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 4:10
- Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 4:10
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 4:10
- Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 4:10
- Sermons on Proverbs 4:10
Context — A Father’s Instruction
8Prize her, and she will exalt you; if you embrace her, she will honor you.
9She will set a garland of grace on your head; she will present you with a crown of beauty.”
10Listen, my son, and receive my words, and the years of your life will be many.
11I will guide you in the way of wisdom; I will lead you on straight paths. 12When you walk, your steps will not be impeded; when you run, you will not stumble.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Thessalonians 2:13 | And we continually thank God because, when you received the word of God that you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as the true word of God—the word which is now at work in you who believe. |
| 2 | Proverbs 3:2 | for they will add length to your days, years and peace to your life. |
| 3 | Jeremiah 9:20 | Now, O women, hear the word of the LORD. Open your ears to the word of His mouth. Teach your daughters to wail, and one another to lament. |
| 4 | Deuteronomy 6:2 | so that you and your children and grandchildren may fear the LORD your God all the days of your lives by keeping all His statutes and commandments that I give you, and so that your days may be prolonged. |
| 5 | Proverbs 3:16 | Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor. |
| 6 | 1 Timothy 1:15 | This is a trustworthy saying, worthy of full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the worst. |
| 7 | John 3:32–33 | He testifies to what He has seen and heard, yet no one accepts His testimony. Whoever accepts His testimony has certified that God is truthful. |
| 8 | Proverbs 8:10 | Receive my instruction instead of silver, and knowledge rather than pure gold. |
| 9 | Proverbs 2:1 | My son, if you accept my words and hide my commandments within you, |
| 10 | Proverbs 19:20 | Listen to counsel and accept discipline, that you may be wise the rest of your days. |
Proverbs 4:10 Summary
[This verse, Proverbs 4:10, is saying that if we listen to and follow the words of wisdom, our lives will be long and fulfilling, which is in line with other teachings in the Bible, such as Deuteronomy 5:33 and Proverbs 3:1-2. By following God's wisdom, we can experience a long and peaceful life, as promised in Proverbs 3:1-2. This is not just about knowing a lot of things, but about living a life that honors God and follows His commands, as seen in verses like John 14:15 and Matthew 22:37-40. By prioritizing wisdom and listening to God's words, we can live a life that is pleasing to Him and brings joy and fulfillment to ourselves and those around us.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of listening to the words of wisdom in Proverbs 4:10?
Listening to the words of wisdom in Proverbs 4:10 is significant because it leads to a long and fulfilling life, as promised in the verse, and is also in line with the teachings of Deuteronomy 32:47 and Proverbs 9:10-11, which emphasize the importance of following God's commands for a long life.
How can we receive the words of wisdom mentioned in this verse?
We can receive the words of wisdom by reading and meditating on Scripture, such as Psalms 119:97-104, and by seeking guidance from Godly mentors and teachers, as mentioned in Proverbs 1:7-9 and Proverbs 9:1-6.
What is the relationship between listening to wisdom and the length of one's life?
According to Proverbs 4:10, listening to wisdom and receiving the words of wisdom will lead to a long life, which is also supported by other verses such as Proverbs 3:1-2 and Proverbs 9:11, which teach that following God's wisdom leads to a long and peaceful life.
Is this verse only applicable to young people?
No, this verse is applicable to people of all ages, as the wisdom of God is for everyone, regardless of age, and can be applied throughout one's life, as seen in verses like Psalms 71:17-18 and Proverbs 16:31, which mention the importance of wisdom for the young and old alike.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways I can apply the wisdom of Proverbs 4:10 to my daily life, and what changes can I make to prioritize listening to God's words?
- How can I ensure that I am receiving the words of wisdom, and what role does the Holy Spirit play in guiding me towards wisdom?
- What are some potential consequences of not listening to the words of wisdom, and how can I learn from the examples of those who have ignored God's wisdom in the past?
- In what ways can I pass on the wisdom I have received to others, and how can I be a source of guidance and encouragement for those around me?
Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 4:10
Hear, O my son, and receive my sayings,.... Some think David is still speaking to his son Solomon, or Solomon continues relating what his father said to him; though I rather think these are Solomon's
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 4:10
Hear, O my son, and receive my sayings; and the years of thy life shall be many. Hear, O my son, and receive my sayings; and the years of thy life shall be many - reverting to Proverbs 3:2.
Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 4:10
Proverbs 4:10 Hear, O my son, and receive my sayings; and the years of thy life shall be many.Ver. 10. Hear, O my son, and receive.] How slippery an age youth is, and how easily it slips into sinful courses and companies the wise man well knew; and therefore ceaseth not to inculcate and repeat the same thing over and over. Liquidae sunt puerorum memoriae.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 4:10
Verse 10. The years of thy life shall be many.] Vice and intemperance impair the health and shorten the days of the wicked; while true religion, sobriety, and temperance, prolong them. The principal part of our diseases springs from "indolence, intemperance, and disorderly passions." Religion excites to industry, promotes sober habits, and destroys evil passions, and harmonizes the soul; and thus, by preventing many diseases, necessarily prolongs life.
Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 4:10
10. Shall be many — Better, shall increase to thee the years of life. Miller says, “They [the instructions of wisdom] shall grow greater to thee through years of life.”
Sermons on Proverbs 4:10
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Do Not Forsake My Law by Shane Idleman | This sermon emphasizes the importance of repentance, turning back to God, and seeking His wisdom. It highlights the consequences of shedding innocent blood, promoting idolatry, and |
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A Man Who Is Known in Hell by Rolfe Barnard | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not hiding the truth of the gospel. He encourages the audience to boldly proclaim the truth they have received, acknowledg |
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(Guidelines) Proof That the Bible Is the Word of God by J. Vernon McGee | J. Vernon McGee addresses the question of how we can be certain that the Bible is the Word of God, emphasizing the importance of both internal evidence and scriptural examination. |
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(Guidelines) Inspiration Ii by J. Vernon McGee | J. Vernon McGee emphasizes the concept of verbal plenary inspiration, asserting that every word of the Scriptures is divinely inspired and authoritative. He references early Church |
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(1 Thessalonians) Paul's Part by Willie Mullan | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the book of Thessalonians and divides the first chapter into two parts: Paul's part and the Thessalonians' part. In Paul's part, he talks ab |
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Identifying the True Prophet - Part 2 by Art Katz | In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of applying machine-age methods to our relationship with God. He highlights the negative consequences of this approach, such as shal |
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The Mystery of Incarnation (2 of 9) by Art Katz | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the current state of the world, highlighting how it is suffering from disease and the exploitation of natural resources. However, there is ho |