Proverbs 1:33
But whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil.
Original Language Analysis
וְשֹׁמֵ֣עַֽ
But whoso hearkeneth
H8085
וְשֹׁמֵ֣עַֽ
But whoso hearkeneth
Strong's:
H8085
Word #:
1 of 7
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
יִשְׁכָּן
unto me shall dwell
H7931
יִשְׁכָּן
unto me shall dwell
Strong's:
H7931
Word #:
3 of 7
to reside or permanently stay (literally or figuratively)
בֶּ֑טַח
safely
H983
בֶּ֑טַח
safely
Strong's:
H983
Word #:
4 of 7
properly, a place of refuge; abstract, safety, both the fact (security) and the feeling (trust); often (adverb with or without preposition) safely
Cross References
Isaiah 26:3Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.Luke 21:9But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not terrified: for these things must first come to pass; but the end is not by and by.Proverbs 14:26In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.Proverbs 9:11For by me thy days shall be multiplied, and the years of thy life shall be increased.Psalms 81:13Oh that my people had hearkened unto me, and Israel had walked in my ways!Luke 21:19In your patience possess ye your souls.Isaiah 55:3Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.Matthew 17:5While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.1 Peter 1:5Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.Isaiah 48:18O that thou hadst hearkened to my commandments! then had thy peace been as a river, and thy righteousness as the waves of the sea:
Historical Context
In ancient Israel's volatile political environment, security was precious and uncertain. Solomon promises a peace that transcends external threats, grounded in obedience to divine wisdom.
Questions for Reflection
- What fears would diminish if you truly believed God's promises of security?
- How does walking in wisdom produce genuine peace in your daily life?
Analysis & Commentary
Security rests not in circumstances but in covenant relationship with God. The one who heeds wisdom 'shall dwell safely' (Hebrew 'betach'), the same word used for trusting God. This security encompasses both temporal protection and eternal salvation, both gifts of sovereign grace, not earned rewards.