Come, children, listen to me;
This phrase invites the audience to gather and pay attention, emphasizing the importance of the message. In biblical times, the term "children" often referred to disciples or followers, not just young ones. This reflects a teaching setting where wisdom and instruction are imparted. The call to "come" is reminiscent of wisdom literature, such as Proverbs, where wisdom is personified and calls out to those who seek understanding (Proverbs 1:20-23). The act of listening is crucial in Hebrew culture, where oral tradition was a primary means of learning and preserving knowledge.

I will teach you
The speaker assumes the role of a teacher, a respected position in ancient Israelite society. Teaching was a central aspect of Jewish life, with parents and elders responsible for passing down the laws and commandments of God (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). This phrase underscores the importance of instruction in the ways of God, aligning with the biblical emphasis on learning and adhering to divine wisdom. The role of a teacher is also seen in the ministry of Jesus, who often taught his disciples and the crowds through parables and direct instruction (Matthew 5:1-2).

the fear of the LORD.
The "fear of the LORD" is a foundational concept in the Bible, representing a deep respect, reverence, and awe for God. It is the beginning of wisdom and knowledge (Proverbs 9:10). This fear is not about being afraid but about recognizing God's holiness, power, and authority. It involves a commitment to live according to His commandments and to seek His will. The fear of the LORD is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, seen in the lives of the patriarchs, prophets, and apostles. It is also a characteristic of Jesus Christ, who perfectly revered and obeyed the Father (Isaiah 11:2-3).

1. David
The author of Psalm 34, who wrote this psalm as a reflection of his experiences and his relationship with God. He often uses his life events to teach others about faith and trust in the Lord.

2. Children
Symbolically refers to the followers or disciples of David, and by extension, all believers who are willing to learn and grow in their faith.

3. Fear of the LORD
A central theme in this verse, representing a deep respect, reverence, and awe for God, which is foundational to wisdom and understanding.The Call to Listen
Just as David calls his followers to listen, we are called to be attentive to God's Word and teachings. Listening is the first step in learning and growing in our faith.

Teaching the Fear of the LORD
The fear of the LORD is not about being afraid but about having a profound respect and reverence for God. It is essential for living a life that honors Him.

The Role of Spiritual Mentorship
David acts as a mentor, teaching others about God. We are encouraged to seek and provide spiritual mentorship within our communities.

Childlike Faith and Humility
Approaching God with the humility and openness of a child allows us to learn and grow in our relationship with Him.

Practical Wisdom
The fear of the LORD leads to practical wisdom in our daily lives, guiding our decisions and actions in a way that aligns with God's will.1. What is the meaning of Psalm 34:11?

2. How can we "listen" to God's teachings in our daily lives?

3. What does "fear of the LORD" mean in Psalm 34:11?

4. How does Psalm 34:11 connect with Proverbs 1:7 on wisdom?

5. In what ways can parents teach their children to "fear the LORD"?

6. How can we apply the lessons from Psalm 34:11 in our community?

7. What does Psalm 34:11 teach about the fear of the Lord?

8. How does Psalm 34:11 relate to the concept of divine instruction?

9. Why is the fear of the Lord emphasized in Psalm 34:11?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Psalm 34?

11. What does the Bible say to Christian parents of gay children?

12. How can you offer comfort and support in grief?

13. If Psalm 41:11 suggests triumph over enemies is evidence of God's favor, how can it be reconciled with godly individuals who appear to be defeated?

14. Does Luke 18:15-17 contradict any Old Testament teachings about children and divine acceptance?Come, children

David opens with an invitation: “Come.” The call is warm and personal, aimed at “children,” a term of affection that includes every believer, regardless of age or maturity.

• Psalm 95:6 echoes this same invitation: “Come, let us worship and bow down.”

• Matthew 11:28–29 carries it forward in Christ’s words: “Come to Me, all you who are weary… and you will find rest for your souls.”

• Proverbs 1:8 addresses “my son,” underscoring the family tone in which wisdom is shared.

By calling us near, David reminds us that God does not keep His people at a distance; He summons us into fellowship for instruction, comfort, and transformation.

---

listen to me

After gathering the audience, David urges, “listen.” Attentive hearing is the doorway to obedience.

• Deuteronomy 6:4 begins with “Hear, O Israel,” linking listening with loving God wholeheartedly (v. 5).

• Proverbs 4:1 commands, “Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction,” tying attentive ears to a guarded heart (v. 23).

• James 1:19 exhorts believers to be “quick to listen,” showing that true discipleship starts with receptive humility.

Listening is active, not passive; it positions us to receive God’s wisdom and to respond in faith.

---

I will teach you the fear of the LORD

David’s goal is clear: instruction in “the fear of the LORD.” This fear is not terror but reverent awe that produces loving obedience.

• Proverbs 1:7 states, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge,” making it foundational for all understanding.

• Proverbs 9:10 reinforces that “the fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom,” tying reverence to practical living.

• Deuteronomy 10:12–13 shows that fearing God involves walking in His ways, loving Him, and keeping His commands “for your own good.”

• Ecclesiastes 12:13 sums up life’s purpose: “Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.”

• Acts 9:31 highlights how the early church, “walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit,” multiplied.

David pledges to teach because the fear of the LORD must be learned—through Scripture, example, and the Spirit’s work—so that hearts are shaped to love what God loves and hate what He hates.

---

summary

Psalm 34:11 extends a fatherly invitation to draw near, pay attention, and gain life-shaping reverence for God. By coming when called, listening with intent, and receiving instruction, believers grow in the fear of the LORD—an awe-filled obedience that anchors wisdom, fuels worship, and guides daily conduct.

(11) Come, ye children . . .--A common proverbial style. See Proverbs 1:8, and passim. (Comp. also 1John 2:1, &c)

Verses 11-22. - The second, didactic, part of the psalm here begins. The writer assumes the role of the teacher, and, addressing his readers as "sons," undertakes to "teach them the fear of the Lord" (ver, 11), or, in other words, to point out to them in what true religion consists. This he does in two remarkable verses (vers. 13, 14); after which he proceeds, in the remainder of the psalm, to give reasons which may incline them to the practice of it (vers. 15-22). The reasons resolve themselves into two main grounds - the tender love and care of God for the righteous (vers. 15, 17-20, 22), and his hostility to and punishment of the wicked (vers. 16, 21). Verse 11. - Come, ye children, hearken unto me (comp. Proverbs 4:1; Proverbs 8:32; 1 John 2:1, 18; 1 John 3:18; 1 John 4:4, etc.). I will teach you the fear of the Lord; i.e. I will teach you the nature of true religion. Note the absence from what follows of any merely legal requirements, and the simple insist-ance on right moral conduct (vers. 13, 14).

Parallel Commentaries ...


Come,
לְֽכוּ־ (lə·ḵū-)
Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine plural
Strong's 1980: To go, come, walk

children,
בָ֭נִים (ḇā·nîm)
Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 1121: A son

listen to me;
שִׁמְעוּ־ (šim·‘ū-)
Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine plural
Strong's 8085: To hear intelligently

I will teach
אֲלַמֶּדְכֶֽם׃ (’ă·lam·meḏ·ḵem)
Verb - Piel - Imperfect Cohortative if contextual - first person common singular | second person masculine plural
Strong's 3925: To exercise in, learn

you the fear
יִֽרְאַ֥ת (yir·’aṯ)
Noun - feminine singular construct
Strong's 3374: Fear, reverence

of the LORD.
יְ֝הוָ֗ה (Yah·weh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel


Psalm 34:11 NIV
Psalm 34:11 NLT
Psalm 34:11 ESV
Psalm 34:11 NASB
Psalm 34:11 KJV

Psalm 34:11 BibleApps.com
Psalm 34:11 Biblia Paralela
Psalm 34:11 Chinese Bible
Psalm 34:11 French Bible
Psalm 34:11 Catholic Bible

OT Poetry: Psalm 34:11 Come you children listen to me (Psalm Ps Psa.)