Proverbs 5:7
Hear me now therefore, O ye children, and depart not from the words of my mouth.
Original Language Analysis
וְעַתָּ֣ה
H6258
בָ֭נִים
me now therefore O ye children
H1121
בָ֭נִים
me now therefore O ye children
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
2 of 8
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
שִׁמְעוּ
Hear
H8085
שִׁמְעוּ
Hear
Strong's:
H8085
Word #:
3 of 8
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
וְאַל
H408
וְאַל
Strong's:
H408
Word #:
5 of 8
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
Historical Context
Deuteronomy 6:4-7's Shema commanded Israel to hear God's Word and teach it diligently to children. The verbal root 'shama' carries covenantal weight - hearing means obeying. Jesus' parable of wise and foolish builders (Matthew 7:24-27) similarly distinguishes those who hear and do versus those who hear without doing.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you ensure you're truly 'hearing' wisdom rather than merely acknowledging it intellectually?
- What causes you to 'depart' from wisdom you've received, and how can you maintain adherence?
- Whose wisdom are you currently neglecting that deserves renewed attention?
Analysis & Commentary
Children must hear and not depart from parental wisdom. The Hebrew 'shama' (hear/obey) and 'suwr' (depart/turn aside) demand both initial attention and continued adherence. This verse emphasizes receptivity to instruction - hearing isn't merely auditory reception but obedient response. Wisdom requires both receiving and retaining, both hearing and heeding.