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Proverbs 4:11 I will guide you in the way of wisdom; I will lead you on straight paths.
<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Proverbs 4:11 I will guide you in the way of wisdom; I will lead you on straight paths.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/proverbs/4-11.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/16/20_Pro_04_11.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Proverbs 4:11 - A Father's Instruction" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="I will guide you in the way of wisdom; I will lead you on straight paths." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; 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I have led you in the paths of uprightness.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/proverbs/4.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />I will guide you in the way of wisdom; I will lead you on straight paths.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/proverbs/4.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />I have taught thee in the way of wisdom; I have led thee in right paths.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/proverbs/4.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />I have taught you in the way of wisdom; I have led you in right paths.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/proverbs/4.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />I have instructed you in the way of wisdom; I have led you in upright paths.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/proverbs/4.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />I have directed you in the way of wisdom; I have led you in upright paths.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/proverbs/4.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />I have directed you in the way of wisdom; I have led you in upright paths.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/proverbs/4.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />I have instructed you in the way of wisdom; I have led you in upright tracks.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/proverbs/4.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />I have instructed you in the way of [skillful and godly] wisdom; I have led you in upright paths.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/proverbs/4.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />I am teaching you the way of wisdom; I am guiding you on straight paths.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/proverbs/4.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />I am teaching you the way of wisdom; I am guiding you on straight paths. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/proverbs/4.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />I have taught thee in the way of wisdom; I have led thee in paths of uprightness.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/proverbs/4.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />I have shown you the way that makes sense; I have guided you along the right path. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/proverbs/4.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />I have taught thee in the way of wisdom; I have led thee in paths of uprightness.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/proverbs/4.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />I have taught you the way of wisdom. I have guided you along decent paths.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/proverbs/4.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />I have taught you wisdom and the right way to live. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/proverbs/4.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />I have directed you in the way of wisdom, and I have led you along straight paths.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/proverbs/4.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />I will guide you in the way of wisdom; I will lead you on straight paths.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/proverbs/4.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />I will guide you in the way of wisdom and I will lead you in upright paths. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/proverbs/4.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />I have taught you in the way of wisdom. I have led you in straight paths.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/proverbs/4.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />I have taught thee in the way of wisdom; I have led thee in right paths.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/proverbs/4.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />I have taught you in the way of wisdom. I have led you in straight paths. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/proverbs/4.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />I have directed you in a way of wisdom, "" I have caused you to tread in paths of uprightness.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/proverbs/4.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> In a way of wisdom I have directed thee, I have caused thee to tread in paths of uprightness.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/proverbs/4.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />In the way of wisdom I taught thee; I caused thee to tread in the tracks of uprightness.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/proverbs/4.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />I will shew thee the way of wisdom, I will lead thee by the paths of equity: <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/proverbs/4.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />I will demonstrate to you the way of wisdom. I will lead you along the paths of equity.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/proverbs/4.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />On the way of wisdom I direct you, I lead you on straight paths. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/proverbs/4.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />I have taught you the way of wisdom; I have led you in the paths of uprightness.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/proverbs/4.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />I have taught you the ways of wisdom; I have led you in right paths.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/proverbs/4.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />I have taught you the ways of wisdom and I have led you in the straight paths.<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/proverbs/4.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />I have taught thee in the way of wisdom; I have led thee in paths of uprightness.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/proverbs/4.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />For I teach thee the ways of wisdom; and I cause thee to go in right paths.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/proverbs/4-11.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kpUA5ZltBeQ?start=645" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/proverbs/4.htm">A Father's Instruction</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">10</span>Listen, my son, and receive my words, and the years of your life will be many. <span class="reftext">11</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/3384.htm" title="3384: hō·rê·ṯî·ḵā (V-Hifil-Perf-1cs:: 2ms) -- Or yara; a primitive root; properly, to flow as water; transitively, to lay or throw; figuratively, to point out, to teach.">I will guide you</a> <a href="/hebrew/1870.htm" title="1870: bə·ḏe·reḵ (Prep-b:: N-csc) -- Way, road, distance, journey, manner. From darak; a road; figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb.">in the way</a> <a href="/hebrew/2451.htm" title="2451: ḥāḵ·māh (N-fs) -- Wisdom. From chakam; wisdom.">of wisdom;</a> <a href="/hebrew/1869.htm" title="1869: hiḏ·raḵ·tî·ḵā (V-Hifil-Perf-1cs:: 2ms) -- To tread, march. A primitive root; to tread; by implication, to walk; also to string a bow.">I will lead you</a> <a href="/hebrew/3476.htm" title="3476: yō·šer (N-ms) -- Straightness, uprightness. From yashar; the right.">on straight</a> <a href="/hebrew/4570.htm" title="4570: bə·ma‘·gə·lê- (Prep-b:: N-mpc) -- An entrenchment, track. Or feminine mapgalah; from the same as agol; a track; also a rampart.">paths.</a> </span><span class="reftext">12</span>When you walk, your steps will not be impeded; when you run, you will not stumble.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/32-8.htm">Psalm 32:8</a></span><br />I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will give you counsel and watch over you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/25-8.htm">Psalm 25:8-9</a></span><br />Good and upright is the LORD; therefore He shows sinners the way. / He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them His way.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/48-17.htm">Isaiah 48:17</a></span><br />Thus says the LORD your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: “I am the LORD your God, who teaches you for your benefit, who directs you in the way you should go.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/119-105.htm">Psalm 119:105</a></span><br />Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/3-5.htm">Proverbs 3:5-6</a></span><br />Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; / in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/30-21.htm">Isaiah 30:21</a></span><br />And whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear this command behind you: “This is the way. Walk in it.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/37-23.htm">Psalm 37:23</a></span><br />The steps of a man are ordered by the LORD who takes delight in his journey.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/2-6.htm">Proverbs 2:6-9</a></span><br />For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding. / He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk with integrity, / to guard the paths of justice and protect the way of His saints. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/1-5.htm">James 1:5</a></span><br />Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/john/14-6.htm">John 14:6</a></span><br />Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/119-133.htm">Psalm 119:133</a></span><br />Order my steps in Your word; let no sin rule over me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/8-20.htm">Proverbs 8:20</a></span><br />I walk in the way of righteousness, along the paths of justice,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_timothy/3-16.htm">2 Timothy 3:16-17</a></span><br />All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, / so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/73-24.htm">Psalm 73:24</a></span><br />You guide me with Your counsel, and later receive me in glory.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/16-9.htm">Proverbs 16:9</a></span><br />A man’s heart plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">I have taught you in the way of wisdom; I have led you in right paths.</p><p class="hdg">taught</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/4-4.htm">Proverbs 4:4</a></b></br> He taught me also, and said unto me, Let thine heart retain my words: keep my commandments, and live.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/deuteronomy/4-5.htm">Deuteronomy 4:5</a></b></br> Behold, I have taught you statutes and judgments, even as the LORD my God commanded me, that ye should do so in the land whither ye go to possess it.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_samuel/12-24.htm">1 Samuel 12:24</a></b></br> Only fear the LORD, and serve him in truth with all your heart: for consider how great <i>things</i> he hath done for you.</p><p class="hdg">led</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/8-6.htm">Proverbs 8:6,9,20</a></b></br> Hear; for I will speak of excellent things; and the opening of my lips <i>shall be</i> right things… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/23-3.htm">Psalm 23:3</a></b></br> He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/25-4.htm">Psalm 25:4,5</a></b></br> Shew me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths… </p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/psalms/143-3.htm">Caused</a> <a href="/psalms/119-102.htm">Directed</a> <a href="/proverbs/2-17.htm">Guide</a> <a href="/proverbs/1-25.htm">Guiding</a> <a href="/psalms/137-3.htm">Led</a> <a href="/proverbs/3-17.htm">Paths</a> <a href="/proverbs/3-27.htm">Right</a> <a href="/psalms/140-4.htm">Steps</a> <a href="/proverbs/3-6.htm">Straight</a> <a href="/proverbs/4-4.htm">Taught</a> <a href="/psalms/143-10.htm">Teach</a> <a href="/proverbs/4-4.htm">Teaching</a> <a href="/psalms/119-35.htm">Tread</a> <a href="/proverbs/3-33.htm">Upright</a> <a href="/proverbs/2-13.htm">Uprightness</a> <a href="/proverbs/3-23.htm">Way</a> <a href="/proverbs/4-7.htm">Wisdom</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/proverbs/4-16.htm">Caused</a> <a href="/proverbs/20-24.htm">Directed</a> <a href="/proverbs/6-7.htm">Guide</a> <a href="/proverbs/5-13.htm">Guiding</a> <a href="/proverbs/7-21.htm">Led</a> <a href="/proverbs/4-26.htm">Paths</a> <a href="/proverbs/4-25.htm">Right</a> <a href="/proverbs/4-12.htm">Steps</a> <a href="/proverbs/4-25.htm">Straight</a> <a href="/proverbs/22-19.htm">Taught</a> <a href="/proverbs/9-9.htm">Teach</a> <a href="/proverbs/5-1.htm">Teaching</a> <a href="/proverbs/30-29.htm">Tread</a> <a href="/proverbs/8-6.htm">Upright</a> <a href="/proverbs/8-6.htm">Uprightness</a> <a href="/proverbs/4-12.htm">Way</a> <a href="/proverbs/5-1.htm">Wisdom</a><div class="vheading2">Proverbs 4</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/4-1.htm">persuades to wisdom</a></span><br><span class="reftext">14. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/4-14.htm">and to show wickedness</a></span><br><span class="reftext">20. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/4-20.htm">He exhorts to sanctification</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br /> <!-- /1078254/BH-728x90-ATF --> <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br /> <!-- /1078254/BH-300x250-ATF --> <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br /> <!-- /1078254/BH-728x90-BTF --> <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br /> <!-- /1078254/BH-300x250-BTF --> <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br /> <!-- /1078254/BH-728x90-BTF2 --> <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/proverbs/4.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/proverbs/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/proverbs/4.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>I will guide you in the way of wisdom;</b><br>This phrase emphasizes the role of a teacher or mentor in imparting wisdom, a central theme in the book of Proverbs. Wisdom in the biblical context is not merely intellectual knowledge but a practical understanding of how to live a life that is pleasing to God. The "way of wisdom" suggests a journey or path, indicating that wisdom is a process of growth and learning. This aligns with the broader biblical narrative where wisdom is personified, as seen in <a href="/proverbs/8.htm">Proverbs 8</a>, and is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who is described as the wisdom of God (<a href="/1_corinthians/1-24.htm">1 Corinthians 1:24</a>). The guidance offered here is akin to the shepherding role seen throughout Scripture, where God leads His people, as in <a href="/psalms/23.htm">Psalm 23:1-3</a>.<p><b>I will lead you on straight paths.</b><br>The imagery of "straight paths" suggests a life of righteousness and moral integrity. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a straight path was often associated with safety and directness, contrasting with the crooked paths of the wicked (<a href="/proverbs/2-15.htm">Proverbs 2:15</a>). This reflects the biblical theme of God making the paths of the righteous straight, as seen in <a href="/isaiah/40-3.htm">Isaiah 40:3-4</a>, which is also echoed in the New Testament with John the Baptist preparing the way for Jesus (<a href="/matthew/3-3.htm">Matthew 3:3</a>). The straight path is symbolic of a life aligned with God's will, free from the obstacles and pitfalls of sin. This phrase reassures believers of divine guidance and the promise of a life directed by God's wisdom, ultimately pointing to the path of salvation through Christ.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/s/solomon.htm">Solomon</a></b><br>Traditionally considered the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. He is addressing his son, imparting wisdom and guidance.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_path_of_wisdom.htm">The Path of Wisdom</a></b><br>This metaphorical path represents a life lived according to God's principles, characterized by righteousness, integrity, and understanding.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_audience.htm">The Audience</a></b><br>While Solomon addresses his son, the teachings are applicable to all believers seeking to live a life pleasing to God.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_source_of_wisdom.htm">The Source of Wisdom</a></b><br>God is the ultimate source of wisdom. Believers are encouraged to seek His guidance through prayer and scripture.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_straight_paths.htm">The Importance of Straight Paths</a></b><br>Walking on straight paths symbolizes living a life of integrity and righteousness. It involves making choices that align with God's will.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/a/active_guidance.htm">Active Guidance</a></b><br>God actively guides those who seek Him. This requires a relationship with God and a willingness to follow His lead.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/w/wisdom_as_a_journey.htm">Wisdom as a Journey</a></b><br>The pursuit of wisdom is a lifelong journey. Believers should continually seek to grow in understanding and apply God's principles to their lives.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/p/practical_application.htm">Practical Application</a></b><br>Applying wisdom involves making daily decisions that reflect God's truth and love, impacting personal life, relationships, and community.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_proverbs_4.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 4</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_defines_a_biblical_proverb.htm">What defines a biblical proverb?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_to_excel_in_everything_we_do.htm">Where can wise counsel be found?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_does_'esteem_others'_mean.htm">What does it mean for the Lord to direct us?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_is_the_nature_of_divine_guidance.htm">What is the nature of divine guidance?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/proverbs/4.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 11.</span> - The perfects, <span class="cmt_word">I have taught and I have led,</span> in the original seem to have here the absolute signification of the past. The father recalls the instruction which he has given in times past. So Delitzsch. But Gejerus gives them the combined force of the past and future, "I have taught and I will more fully teach," and so with the other verb. The Vulgate renders, <span class="accented">monstrabo</span>, "I will show," and <span class="accented">ducam</span>, "<span class="accented">I</span> will lead." <span class="cmt_word">In the way of wisdom</span> (<span class="accented">b'derek khok'mah</span>) may mean "in the way that leads <span class="accented">to</span>, or by which you come to Wisdom; I have taught you the manner in which Wisdom may be attained;" or "the way in which Wisdom walks" (Zockler). The ways of Wisdom are described in <a href="/proverbs/3-17.htm">Proverbs 3:17</a> as "<span class="accented">ways</span> of pleasantness." The next clause seems to indicate that the latter explanation is to be preferred. The (<span class="accented">b</span>) indicates the subject in which instruction has been given. <span class="cmt_word">In right paths</span> (<span class="accented">b'ma'g'le yosher</span>); literally, <span class="accented">in the paths of rectitude</span>; <span class="accented">i.e.</span> of straightness, paths of which the characteristic is uprightness. (On "paths," as signifying a carriageway, see <a href="/proverbs/2-9.htm">Proverbs 2:9</a>.) <span class="accented">Instruction</span> and <span class="accented">direction</span> have formed the two elements in the father's teaching. These present us with a model of education. "To teach <span class="accented">duty</span> without <span class="accented">truth</span> is to teach <span class="accented">practice</span> without <span class="accented">motive</span>; to teach <span class="accented">truth</span> without <span class="accented">duty</span> is to teach motive without the practice to which it should lead" (Wardlaw). <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/proverbs/4-11.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">I will guide you</span><br /><span class="heb">הֹרֵתִ֑יךָ</span> <span class="translit">(hō·rê·ṯî·ḵā)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Hifil - Perfect - first person common singular | second person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3384.htm">Strong's 3384: </a> </span><span class="str2">To flow as water, to lay, throw, to point out, to teach</span><br /><br /><span class="word">in the way</span><br /><span class="heb">בְּדֶ֣רֶךְ</span> <span class="translit">(bə·ḏe·reḵ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-b | Noun - common singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1870.htm">Strong's 1870: </a> </span><span class="str2">A road, a course of life, mode of action</span><br /><br /><span class="word">of wisdom;</span><br /><span class="heb">חָ֭כְמָה</span> <span class="translit">(ḥāḵ·māh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - feminine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2451.htm">Strong's 2451: </a> </span><span class="str2">Wisdom</span><br /><br /><span class="word">I will lead you</span><br /><span class="heb">הִ֝דְרַכְתִּ֗יךָ</span> <span class="translit">(hiḏ·raḵ·tî·ḵā)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Hifil - Perfect - first person common singular | second person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1869.htm">Strong's 1869: </a> </span><span class="str2">To tread, to walk, to string a, bow</span><br /><br /><span class="word">on straight</span><br /><span class="heb">יֹֽשֶׁר׃</span> <span class="translit">(yō·šer)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3476.htm">Strong's 3476: </a> </span><span class="str2">Straightness, uprightness</span><br /><br /><span class="word">paths.</span><br /><span class="heb">בְּמַעְגְּלֵי־</span> <span class="translit">(bə·ma‘·gə·lê-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-b | Noun - masculine plural construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_4570.htm">Strong's 4570: </a> </span><span class="str2">An entrenchment, track</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/proverbs/4-11.htm">Proverbs 4:11 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/proverbs/4-11.htm">Proverbs 4:11 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/proverbs/4-11.htm">Proverbs 4:11 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/proverbs/4-11.htm">Proverbs 4:11 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/proverbs/4-11.htm">Proverbs 4:11 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/proverbs/4-11.htm">Proverbs 4:11 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/proverbs/4-11.htm">Proverbs 4:11 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/proverbs/4-11.htm">Proverbs 4:11 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/proverbs/4-11.htm">Proverbs 4:11 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/proverbs/4-11.htm">Proverbs 4:11 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/proverbs/4-11.htm">OT Poetry: Proverbs 4:11 I have taught you in the way (Prov. Pro Pr) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/proverbs/4-10.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Proverbs 4:10"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Proverbs 4:10" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/proverbs/4-12.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Proverbs 4:12"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Proverbs 4:12" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>