Proverbs 4:26
Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established.
Original Language Analysis
פַּ֭לֵּס
Ponder
H6424
פַּ֭לֵּס
Ponder
Strong's:
H6424
Word #:
1 of 6
properly, to roll flat, i.e., prepare (a road); also to revolve, i.e., weigh (mentally)
מַעְגַּ֣ל
the path
H4570
מַעְגַּ֣ל
the path
Strong's:
H4570
Word #:
2 of 6
a track (literally or figuratively); also a rampart (as circular)
רַגְלֶ֑ךָ
of thy feet
H7272
רַגְלֶ֑ךָ
of thy feet
Strong's:
H7272
Word #:
3 of 6
a foot (as used in walking); by implication, a step; by euphemistically the pudenda
וְֽכָל
H3605
וְֽכָל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
4 of 6
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
Cross References
Psalms 37:23The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.Hebrews 12:13And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed.Psalms 119:5O that my ways were directed to keep thy statutes!2 Thessalonians 3:3But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil.Haggai 1:5Now therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts; Consider your ways.Haggai 1:7Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Consider your ways.Psalms 119:59I thought on my ways, and turned my feet unto thy testimonies.1 Thessalonians 3:13To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints.Ezekiel 18:28Because he considereth, and turneth away from all his transgressions that he hath committed, he shall surely live, he shall not die.Proverbs 5:21For the ways of man are before the eyes of the LORD, and he pondereth all his goings.
Historical Context
Levitical priests used similar language for careful examination (Leviticus 13). Moral self-examination required the same rigorous assessment to ensure one walked in God's ways.
Questions for Reflection
- How regularly do you examine whether your life's path aligns with God's will?
- What practices help you thoughtfully evaluate your spiritual direction?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Pondering the path involves careful deliberation about life's direction. The Hebrew 'palles' (ponder) means to make level or balanced, suggesting thoughtful evaluation of one's course. Established ways demonstrate consistent, habitual righteousness, not merely occasional obedience—this is the fruit of progressive sanctification.