Proverbs 4:13
Take fast hold of instruction; let her not go: keep her; for she is thy life.
Original Language Analysis
הַחֲזֵ֣ק
Take fast hold
H2388
הַחֲזֵ֣ק
Take fast hold
Strong's:
H2388
Word #:
1 of 8
to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra
בַּמּוּסָ֣ר
of instruction
H4148
בַּמּוּסָ֣ר
of instruction
Strong's:
H4148
Word #:
2 of 8
properly, chastisement; figuratively, reproof, warning or instruction; also restraint
אַל
H408
אַל
Strong's:
H408
Word #:
3 of 8
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
תֶּ֑רֶף
let her not go
H7503
תֶּ֑רֶף
let her not go
Strong's:
H7503
Word #:
4 of 8
to slacken (in many applications, literal or figurative)
נִ֝צְּרֶ֗הָ
keep
H5341
נִ֝צְּרֶ֗הָ
keep
Strong's:
H5341
Word #:
5 of 8
to guard, in a good sense (to protect, maintain, obey, etc.) or a bad one (to conceal, etc.)
כִּי
H3588
כִּי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
6 of 8
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
Cross References
Hebrews 2:1Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip.Proverbs 3:18She is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy is every one that retaineth her.Proverbs 23:23Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding.Deuteronomy 32:47For it is not a vain thing for you; because it is your life: and through this thing ye shall prolong your days in the land, whither ye go over Jordan to possess it.Acts 2:42And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.Revelation 12:11And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.Acts 11:23Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord.John 6:68Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.1 Thessalonians 5:21Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.Revelation 2:13I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth.
Historical Context
In oral cultures, losing teaching meant permanent loss of knowledge. Written Torah provided stability, but personal appropriation still required mental retention and heart commitment.
Questions for Reflection
- What practices help you firmly grasp and retain biblical instruction?
- Where might you be carelessly letting go of truth you once held dear?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Instruction is precious enough to guard with utmost care—it represents life itself. The Hebrew 'natsar' (keep) suggests vigilant watching, as over treasure. Letting go brings death, while maintaining grip ensures life. This illustrates total dependence on God's revealed truth for spiritual vitality.