Proverbs 4:25
Let thine eyes look right on, and let thine eyelids look straight before thee.
Original Language Analysis
עֵ֭ינֶיךָ
Let thine eyes
H5869
עֵ֭ינֶיךָ
Let thine eyes
Strong's:
H5869
Word #:
1 of 6
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
לְנֹ֣כַח
right on
H5227
לְנֹ֣כַח
right on
Strong's:
H5227
Word #:
2 of 6
properly, the front part; used adverbially (especially with preposition), opposite, in front of, forward, in behalf of
יַבִּ֑יטוּ
look
H5027
יַבִּ֑יטוּ
look
Strong's:
H5027
Word #:
3 of 6
to scan, i.e., look intently at; by implication, to regard with pleasure, favor or care
וְ֝עַפְעַפֶּ֗יךָ
and let thine eyelids
H6079
וְ֝עַפְעַפֶּ֗יךָ
and let thine eyelids
Strong's:
H6079
Word #:
4 of 6
an eyelash (as fluttering); figuratively, morning ray
Cross References
Psalms 119:37Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity; and quicken thou me in thy way.Matthew 6:22The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light.Job 31:1I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid?Proverbs 23:33Thine eyes shall behold strange women, and thine heart shall utter perverse things.Proverbs 23:5Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven.
Historical Context
Ancient roads were perilous, with dangers lurking at turns and side paths. Travelers needed vigilant attention to the route, making this a vivid metaphor for spiritual navigation through a fallen world.
Questions for Reflection
- What spiritual 'side paths' most frequently tempt you away from following Christ?
- How can you maintain focus on your heavenly destination amid earthly distractions?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Looking straight ahead prevents distraction and moral compromise. The path imagery continues the chapter's theme—life requires focus on the goal and avoidance of detours. Eyes fixed on Christ (Hebrews 12:2) enables perseverance through temptation and trial, maintaining the pilgrim's progress heavenward.