Proverbs 6:21

²⁰My son, keep your father’s commandment, and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. ²¹Bind them always upon your heart; tie them around your neck. ²²When you walk, they will guide you; when you lie down, they will watch over you; when you awake, they will speak to you.

Summary

Proverbs 6:21 advises to bind the commandments of the father and the teachings of the mother always upon the heart and tie them around the neck. This metaphorical language emphasizes the importance of internalizing and treasuring the wisdom passed down from parents, which serves as a guide and protection in life. By heeding parental instruction and living according to Godly principles, one can navigate life's challenges with discernment and integrity. This verse underscores the value of honoring and learning from the wisdom of those who have gone before us, leading to a path of righteousness and blessings.

Commentary

John Gill

John Gill Bible Commentary

When thou goest, it shall lead thee,.... The law of God taught by parents; this directs man in the path of duty and business of life; teaches him what way to shun, and which to walk in; it leads out of the paths of sin, and into the way in which he should go, which is most conducive to his good, and to the glory of God; it will lead him safely, so that he shall not stumble, Pro 3:3; when thou sleepest, it shall keep thee; from terrifying dreams, evil spirits, dangers by fire or thieves; one that observes it conscientiously may lie down and sleep, secure of the guardianship of divine Providence, and not fear any evil; or "shall watch over thee" (h) in the night season; and when thou awakest, it shall talk with thee; familiarly; and instruct what to do, and how to behave the day following; or "it shall go out with thee" (i), into the fields for a morning's walk, and assist in meditation. Jarchi interprets this of sleeping by death, and of awaking at the resurrection of the dead. (h) "excubabit apud te", Cocceius; "excubias aget super te", Michaelis, Schultens. (i) "illa ipsa spatiabitur tecum", Schultens.