Proverbs 2:20
That thou mayest walk in the way of good men, and keep the paths of the righteous.
Original Language Analysis
לְמַ֗עַן
H4616
לְמַ֗עַן
Strong's:
H4616
Word #:
1 of 7
properly, heed, i.e., purpose; used only adverbially, on account of (as a motive or an aim), teleologically, in order that
תֵּ֭לֵךְ
H1980
תֵּ֭לֵךְ
Strong's:
H1980
Word #:
2 of 7
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
בְּדֶ֣רֶךְ
in the way
H1870
בְּדֶ֣רֶךְ
in the way
Strong's:
H1870
Word #:
3 of 7
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
טוֹבִ֑ים
of good
H2896
טוֹבִ֑ים
of good
Strong's:
H2896
Word #:
4 of 7
good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good
Cross References
Hebrews 6:12That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.Psalms 119:115Depart from me, ye evildoers: for I will keep the commandments of my God.Proverbs 13:20He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.Jeremiah 6:16Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein.3 John 1:11Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God.
Historical Context
Reflects covenant community structure where righteous example and communal accountability supported faithfulness. Walking in righteousness was both personal decision and participation in community of faith.
Questions for Reflection
- Who are the 'good men' whose ways you're currently following?
- How does your conduct demonstrate that you're keeping the paths of the righteous?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The result of wisdom: walking in the way of good men and keeping paths of the righteous. Wisdom produces righteous conduct and association with godly community. The verse presents ethical behavior as both individual character and communal participation. Good men's ways are worth imitating; righteous paths are worth maintaining. This balance between individual responsibility and communal influence characterizes biblical ethics.