Proverbs 10:17 kjv

He is in the way of life that keepeth instruction: but he that refuseth reproof erreth.

Proverbs 10:17 nkjv

He who keeps instruction is in the way of life, But he who refuses correction goes astray.

Proverbs 10:17 niv

Whoever heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray.

Proverbs 10:17 esv

Whoever heeds instruction is on the path to life, but he who rejects reproof leads others astray.

Proverbs 10:17 nlt

People who accept discipline are on the pathway to life,
but those who ignore correction will go astray.

Proverbs 10 verses

Proverbs 10 17 Meaning

Proverbs 10:17 states, "He who heeds instruction is on the path to life, but he who ignores correction goes astray." This verse highlights a fundamental truth: diligently receiving and applying discipline, wisdom, and guidance leads one to a fulfilling and righteous life, marked by flourishing and safety. Conversely, those who deliberately disregard or reject admonition and reproof stray from the correct course, leading themselves into error, danger, and ultimate destruction. It underscores the critical importance of teachability and humility in one's journey.

Proverbs 10 17 Context

Proverbs chapter 10 marks the beginning of "The proverbs of Solomon," comprising short, pithy sayings (maxim) that typically compare and contrast the wise and the foolish, the righteous and the wicked. Each verse largely stands alone, offering a self-contained truth, though common themes like diligence, integrity, speech, and the fear of the Lord run throughout. Proverbs 10:17 specifically focuses on the reception of wisdom and discipline as a determinant of one's destiny. It's placed among verses that describe the differing outcomes of diligence versus laziness (v. 4), the lasting reputation of the righteous versus the silenced memory of the wicked (v. 7), and the peril of foolish lips versus the protective words of the wise (v. 8). Historically and culturally, wisdom literature like Proverbs was crucial in ancient Israel, instructing young people in the ways of God and how to live a flourishing life in covenant with Him. It drew upon universal observations of human behavior and divine order, presenting a moral universe where actions have clear, predictable consequences, emphasizing instruction often given within the family or by sages.

Proverbs 10 17 Word analysis

• He who heeds: šōmēr (שׁוֹמֵר), an active participle meaning "one who watches, observes, keeps, guards." This is not passive listening, but active, diligent attention and preservation. It implies taking care to hold onto and obey the instruction.
• Instruction: mūṣār (מוּסָר). This is a broad term encompassing discipline, correction, moral instruction, and training. It implies the process of forming character through teaching and guidance, often involving correction or punishment. Its ultimate source is divine wisdom, channeled through parents, teachers, and God's Word.
• is on the path: Literally "to a path of..." ’ōraḥ (אֹרַח). Signifies a way or course of life, a manner of journeying. It speaks to the ongoing direction and journey of one's life.
• to life: ḥayyîm (חַיִּים). More than just biological existence; it means a flourishing, full, vibrant, and well-blessed existence. In a biblical sense, it signifies true spiritual vitality, favor with God, and a rich, purposeful life that extends beyond the earthly realm.
• but he who ignores: ‘ōzēḇ (עוֹזֵב), active participle meaning "one who forsakes, abandons, leaves, neglects." It represents a conscious, volitional act of disengagement or rejection. This is the opposite of šōmēr (heeds).
• correction: tôkaḥat (תּוֹכַחַת). This specifically refers to reproof, rebuke, or admonition, highlighting the often uncomfortable aspect of instruction when it points out error or sin. It implies confrontation or conviction meant for positive change.
• goes astray: yit‘eh (יִתְעֶה), from the root ta’ah (תעה), meaning "to wander, stray, go astray, err, be led astray." It suggests losing the proper way, deviating from the correct course, and by extension, falling into error, sin, or destruction. It highlights the perilous outcome of neglecting the very guidance meant to keep one safe.

Words-group Analysis:

• "He who heeds instruction" vs. "he who ignores correction": This antithetical parallelism emphasizes two contrasting paths defined by one's attitude towards divine guidance. "Heeding" (šōmēr) signifies a positive, proactive engagement, while "ignoring" (‘ōzēḇ) indicates a deliberate rejection or abandonment. "Instruction" (mūṣār) is the general principle of guidance, whereas "correction" (tôkaḥat) highlights the specific, sometimes unpleasant, act of being reproved for wrongdoings. Both are vital for growth.
• "is on the path to life" vs. "goes astray": These phrases depict the contrasting destinations or states resulting from the respective attitudes. "Path to life" (ōraḥ le-ḥayyîm) indicates a purposeful journey towards well-being, righteousness, and spiritual vitality. "Goes astray" (yit‘eh) portrays a wandering away from the true course, leading to spiritual, moral, and sometimes physical ruin. This portrays the direct consequence of accepting or rejecting wisdom.

Proverbs 10 17 Bonus Section

The structure of this proverb employs a form of antithetical parallelism, common in Proverbs 10. The first line presents a positive action and its positive outcome, while the second line presents the opposing negative action and its corresponding negative outcome. This clear-cut contrast emphasizes the cause-and-effect relationship in the moral universe ordained by God. The Hebrew word mūṣār (instruction) can carry the nuance of 'chastening' or 'punishment,' highlighting that the path to life often involves accepting difficult forms of discipline, even those that correct sinful behavior. Likewise, tôkaḥat (correction) speaks of reasoned argument, rebuke, or admonition, which can be an uncomfortable, but vital, aspect of growth for those who receive it wisely. This verse reinforces the truth that life's journey requires submission to a higher authority and an enduring willingness to learn and change.

Proverbs 10 17 Commentary

Proverbs 10:17 masterfully condenses a profound principle of wisdom: our trajectory in life is determined by our openness to discipline and correction. It’s not merely about hearing, but actively heeding—that is, diligently applying and obeying instruction (mūṣār), which comes from God, parents, wise mentors, and Scripture. This active embrace sets one on the true "path to life" (ḥayyîm), a comprehensive flourishing that encompasses physical well-being, moral integrity, spiritual vitality, and peace with God. It signifies walking in the light and aligning one's steps with God's perfect design.

In stark contrast, the individual who ignores (‘ōzēḇ) correction (tôkaḥat) —specifically, the necessary rebuke for their wrong choices—is destined to go astray (yit‘eh). This 'straying' implies not just a minor deviation, but a significant departure from the path of wisdom and righteousness, leading inevitably to self-deception, destructive consequences, and often isolation from God's favor. The verse thus champions a spirit of humility and teachability, where even uncomfortable reproof is welcomed as a means to stay on the righteous course.

• Example: A child who consistently listens to a parent's rules and warnings avoids danger and develops good character. In contrast, a child who rebels against all guidance constantly faces negative repercussions and misses out on beneficial experiences.
• Example: A believer who regularly engages with God's Word, allows it to instruct and correct their life, and receives feedback from wise counsel, will walk closely with the Lord and experience His blessings. Conversely, one who neglects Scripture and resents any spiritual challenge risks falling into doctrinal error or sinful patterns.