Way/Path
דֶּרֶךְ (derek)
A road, course, or manner of life — the direction one's journey takes.
Derek is the Hebrew word for way, path, or road. It describes both a physical journey and a way of life. Scripture consistently presents two paths — the way of the righteous and the way of the wicked — and calls believers to walk in God's way.
"For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish." — Psalm 1:6 (KJV)
Key Verses
Psalm 1:6
“For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.”Read in context
John 14:6
“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”Read in context
Strong's Concordance
Strong's H1870 — Way/Path (דֶּרֶךְ (derek))
Browse the full lexicon entry and every KJV verse where דֶּרֶךְ (derek) appears.
Open Strong's H1870Etymology and Original Meaning
Derek comes from the verb darakh, meaning 'to tread' or 'to walk.' A derek is literally a trodden path — a road worn by repeated walking. Metaphorically, it describes one's course of life, manner of conduct, or direction of journey. Life in Hebrew thought is a journey, and the critical question is: which derek are you walking?
The Two Ways
Psalm 1 establishes the foundational contrast: the way of the righteous (rooted, fruitful, blessed) and the way of the wicked (windblown, rootless, perishing). Proverbs repeatedly warns against the 'way of the foolish' and commends the 'way of wisdom.' Deuteronomy 30:15-19 presents it starkly: 'I have set before thee life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life.'
God's Way
God has a derek — a specific path He designs for His people. 'In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths' (Proverbs 3:6). God's way is not arbitrary but purposeful, leading to life and flourishing. 'Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path' (Psalm 119:105). Scripture illuminates the derek God has prepared.
Jesus, the Way
Jesus declared, 'I am the way' (John 14:6) — not merely a teacher pointing to the way but the way itself. He is not a signpost but the road. Access to the Father comes exclusively through Him. The early church was originally called 'the Way' (Acts 9:2) — Christianity was understood not as a set of beliefs but as a way of life centered on Christ.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does way or path mean in the Bible?
Way/path (derek) means a road, course of life, or manner of conduct. Scripture presents two fundamental paths — the way of the righteous and the way of the wicked — and calls believers to walk in God's way.
Why did Jesus say 'I am the way'?
Jesus (John 14:6) declared Himself not just a teacher pointing to the path but the path itself — the exclusive means of access to God the Father. He is both the journey and the destination.
What is the Hebrew word for "Way/Path" in the Bible?
דֶּרֶךְ (derek), pronounced "DEH-rek." It means a road, course, or manner of life — the direction one's journey takes. Its Strong's number is H1870. It is the word behind "Way/Path" in both Testaments, for example in Psalm 1:6.
Which Bible verse uses the word "Way/Path"?
Psalm 1:6 — "For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish" (KJV). It also appears in Proverbs 3:6, John 14:6.
Related Words
Related Reading
Continue your study with related content from across our library:
Way/Path (דֶּרֶךְ (derek))
A road, course, or manner of life — the direction one's journey takes.
Strong's H1870 — Way/Path
דֶּרֶךְ (derek) • A road, course, or manner of life — the direction one's journey takes.
Biblical Meaning of Fire in a Dream (KJV)
God's presence, purification, and judgment.
Joshua 24:14 Commentary
In-depth study • Put Away the Old Gods
Faithfulness (אֱמוּנָה (emunah))
Steadfast reliability and trustworthiness — firm, unwavering loyalty.
Biblical Meaning of Blood in a Dream (KJV)
Life, atonement, and covenant with God.
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