Proverbs 19:16
He that keepeth the commandment keepeth his own soul; but he that despiseth his ways shall die.
Original Language Analysis
שֹׁמֵ֣ר
He that keepeth
H8104
שֹׁמֵ֣ר
He that keepeth
Strong's:
H8104
Word #:
1 of 7
properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
מִ֭צְוָה
the commandment
H4687
מִ֭צְוָה
the commandment
Strong's:
H4687
Word #:
2 of 7
a command, whether human or divine (collectively, the law)
שֹׁמֵ֣ר
He that keepeth
H8104
שֹׁמֵ֣ר
He that keepeth
Strong's:
H8104
Word #:
3 of 7
properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
נַפְשׁ֑וֹ
his own soul
H5315
נַפְשׁ֑וֹ
his own soul
Strong's:
H5315
Word #:
4 of 7
properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
Cross References
Proverbs 13:13Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded.Luke 10:28And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live.Luke 11:28But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.Proverbs 16:17The highway of the upright is to depart from evil: he that keepeth his way preserveth his soul.1 John 5:3For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.1 John 3:22And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight.Revelation 22:14Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.Proverbs 29:18Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.Proverbs 21:23Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.Proverbs 3:1My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments:
Historical Context
In Israelite covenant theology, obedience to Torah brought life and blessing, while disobedience brought curse and death (Deuteronomy 28). This principle, while fulfilled in Christ, still reveals the moral structure of God's universe.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you view God's commandments as burdensome restrictions or as life-giving wisdom?
- What areas of disobedience are you tolerating that endanger your soul?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Obedience to God's commandments is not merely external conformity but soul-keeping—the preservation of one's whole being in covenant relationship with God. The Hebrew 'shamar' (keep) implies careful, watchful attention. Conversely, to 'despise his ways' is to treat God's revealed will with contempt, resulting in death—both spiritual and often physical. This verse affirms the inseparable connection between obedience and life in God's covenant. While salvation is by grace alone through faith, true faith necessarily produces obedience (James 2:17). The one who genuinely keeps God's commandments does so because God has given him a new heart.