Proverbs 22:6
“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”
— Proverbs 22:6 (KJV)
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What Does Proverbs 22:6 Mean?
Solomon emphasizes the importance of early spiritual training. The training includes instruction, discipline, and modeling. The seeds planted in childhood bear fruit in adulthood.
How to Apply This Verse
Parents have a sacred responsibility to train children in God's ways. While this is a principle rather than an absolute guarantee, faithful training has lasting impact.
Historical Context
Solomon wrote this around 950 BC. The Hebrew phrase 'the way he should go' literally means 'according to his way'—suggesting training adapted to each child's unique nature, temperament, and gifts. Ancient Hebrew education was primarily oral, through repetition, modeling, and experiential learning within daily life.
Original Language
'Chanokh' means to train up, dedicate, or inaugurate—related to 'Hanukkah' (dedication). It describes initiating or setting the course for a child's life. The same root was used for dedicating a new house or temple—consecrating something for its intended purpose.
Go Deeper
Study Proverbs 22:6 Further
Related Teachings
Beatitudes, Commandments, and Parables connected to this verse: