Proverbs 8:32

Authorized King James Version

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Now therefore hearken unto me, O ye children: for blessed are they that keep my ways.

Original Language Analysis

וְעַתָּ֣ה H6258
וְעַתָּ֣ה
Strong's: H6258
Word #: 1 of 7
at this time, whether adverb, conjunction or expletive
בָ֭נִים unto me O ye children H1121
בָ֭נִים unto me O ye children
Strong's: H1121
Word #: 2 of 7
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 Now therefore hearken H8085
שִׁמְעוּ Now therefore hearken
Strong's: H8085
Word #: 3 of 7
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
לִ֑י H0
לִ֑י
Strong's: H0
Word #: 4 of 7
וְ֝אַשְׁרֵ֗י for blessed H835
וְ֝אַשְׁרֵ֗י for blessed
Strong's: H835
Word #: 5 of 7
happiness; only in masculine plural construction as interjection, how happy!
דְּרָכַ֥י my ways H1870
דְּרָכַ֥י my ways
Strong's: H1870
Word #: 6 of 7
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
יִשְׁמֹֽרוּ׃ are they that keep H8104
יִשְׁמֹֽרוּ׃ are they that keep
Strong's: H8104
Word #: 7 of 7
properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc

Analysis & Commentary

Blessing attends those who keep wisdom's ways. The Hebrew 'ashrei' (blessed) denotes deep, abiding happiness grounded in righteousness. Watching daily at wisdom's gates suggests sustained, disciplined pursuit—not sporadic interest but lifelong devotion to knowing God's truth.

Historical Context

Students in ancient schools gathered daily at teachers' doors for instruction. Solomon adapts this educational imagery to describe the diligent pursuit of divine wisdom.

Questions for Reflection