Proverbs 10:27
The fear of the LORD prolongeth days: but the years of the wicked shall be shortened.
Original Language Analysis
יְ֭הוָה
of the LORD
H3068
יְ֭הוָה
of the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
2 of 7
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
תּוֹסִ֣יף
prolongeth
H3254
תּוֹסִ֣יף
prolongeth
Strong's:
H3254
Word #:
3 of 7
to add or augment (often adverbial, to continue to do a thing)
יָמִ֑ים
days
H3117
יָמִ֑ים
days
Strong's:
H3117
Word #:
4 of 7
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
Cross References
Proverbs 9:11For by me thy days shall be multiplied, and the years of thy life shall be increased.Proverbs 3:2For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee.Psalms 91:16With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.Psalms 21:4He asked life of thee, and thou gavest it him, even length of days for ever and ever.Ecclesiastes 7:17Be not over much wicked, neither be thou foolish: why shouldest thou die before thy time?Psalms 55:23But thou, O God, shalt bring them down into the pit of destruction: bloody and deceitful men shall not live out half their days; but I will trust in thee.Proverbs 3:16Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour.
Historical Context
The Mosaic covenant explicitly connected obedience with long life in the land (Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:33). Solomon applies this corporate promise to individual piety, showing how covenant blessings work through godly living.
Questions for Reflection
- How does fear of the LORD shape your daily decisions in ways that promote wellbeing?
- What wicked choices threaten to shorten or diminish the quality of your life?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Fearing the LORD extends one's days while wickedness cuts life short. This general principle reflects God's moral governance—reverence for God conduces to flourishing, while rebellion courts destruction. Though exceptions exist (martyrs dying young, wicked prospering temporarily), the pattern holds: godliness with contentment is great gain.