Proverbs 19:23
The fear of the LORD tendeth to life: and he that hath it shall abide satisfied; he shall not be visited with evil.
Original Language Analysis
יְהוָ֣ה
of the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֣ה
of the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
2 of 8
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
לְחַיִּ֑ים
tendeth to life
H2416
לְחַיִּ֑ים
tendeth to life
Strong's:
H2416
Word #:
3 of 8
alive; hence, raw (flesh); fresh (plant, water, year), strong; also (as noun, especially in the feminine singular and masculine plural) life (or livin
יָ֝לִ֗ין
and he that hath it shall abide
H3885
יָ֝לִ֗ין
and he that hath it shall abide
Strong's:
H3885
Word #:
5 of 8
to stop (usually over night); by implication, to stay permanently; hence (in a bad sense) to be obstinate (especially in words, to complain)
בַּל
H1077
בַּל
Strong's:
H1077
Word #:
6 of 8
properly, a failure; by implication nothing; usually (adverb) not at all; also lest
Cross References
Matthew 5:6Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.Proverbs 12:21There shall no evil happen to the just: but the wicked shall be filled with mischief.Psalms 90:14O satisfy us early with thy mercy; that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.Proverbs 10:27The fear of the LORD prolongeth days: but the years of the wicked shall be shortened.1 Timothy 4:8For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.Psalms 103:17But the mercy of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children's children;Psalms 85:9Surely his salvation is nigh them that fear him; that glory may dwell in our land.Romans 8:28And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.Malachi 4:2But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall.Psalms 25:13His soul shall dwell at ease; and his seed shall inherit the earth.
Historical Context
In a world of constant threats—warfare, famine, disease—the promise of divine protection held enormous significance. Israel's security depended not on military might but on covenant faithfulness to Yahweh.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you experience the satisfaction and security that come from fearing God?
- What competing fears need to be displaced by the fear of the Lord in your life?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The 'fear of the LORD' is reverent awe that submits to God's authority and delights in His ways. This fear 'tends to life'—Hebrew 'l'chayyim,' emphasizing that true life flows from proper relationship with God. The result is threefold: satisfaction, abiding security, and protection from evil. This doesn't promise immunity from trials but assurance of God's preserving care and ultimate deliverance. Satisfaction comes not from circumstances but from covenant relationship with the living God. The one who fears God rests secure regardless of external threats because God Himself is their portion and shield.