My son, do not forget my teaching, But let your heart keep my commandments;
2
For length of days and years of life And peace they will add to you.
3
Do not let kindness and truth leave you; Bind them around your neck, Write them on the tablet of your heart.
4
So you will find favor and good repute In the sight of God and man.
Proverbs 3:1 — Frequently Asked Questions
7 questions
What does Proverbs 3:1 say?
Proverbs 3:1 in the NASB reads: “My son, do not forget my teaching, But let your heart keep my commandments;”
Where is Proverbs 3:1 in the Bible?
Proverbs 3:1 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Proverbs, chapter 3, verse 1.
Who wrote Proverbs?
Proverbs is traditionally attributed to Solomon (primarily), with sections by Agur and Lemuel. It was written c. 970–700 BC.
What is the book of Proverbs about?
Proverbs is practical wisdom for everyday life — short, vivid sayings on speech, work, money, friendship, sex, parenting, and the fear of the LORD. It teaches that wisdom is not mere cleverness but a way of walking with God in a complicated world.
What are the major themes of Proverbs?
Proverbs explores themes including Wisdom, Folly, Fear of the LORD, Discipline, Speech, Diligence. These themes shape the meaning and context of Proverbs 3:1.
What translation should I read Proverbs 3:1 in?
Proverbs 3:1 is available on GodsGoodBook in the King James Version (KJV), American Standard Version (ASV), World English Bible (WEB), NET Bible, Young's Literal Translation, Darby Bible, Douay-Rheims Bible, and the Bible in Basic English. Each translation reflects different translation philosophies — use the translation picker on this page to compare them, or browse our full translations directory.
How can I memorize Proverbs 3:1?
Proverbs 3:1 reads (NASB): “My son, do not forget my teaching, But let your heart keep my commandments;” Read it aloud, break it into short phrases, repeat each phrase three times before adding the next, then put the phrases together. Reading it in multiple translations (above) often helps the meaning settle.