Proverbs 7:2

Keep my commandments and live; guard my teachings as the apple of your eye.

Study Bible

Keep my commandments
The Hebrew word for "keep" is "שָׁמַר" (shamar), which means to guard, observe, or give heed. This word implies a vigilant and active effort to protect and adhere to the commandments. In the context of ancient Israel, commandments were not merely rules but a covenantal relationship with God. They were seen as life-giving, guiding the people in righteousness and holiness. The call to "keep" them suggests a deep commitment and prioritization of God's laws in one's life, reflecting a heart aligned with divine wisdom.

and live
The phrase "and live" underscores the life-giving nature of God's commandments. In Hebrew, "חָיָה" (chayah) means to live or to have life. This is not just physical existence but a full, abundant life in harmony with God's will. The ancient Israelites understood that true life was found in obedience to God, as His commandments were designed to lead them into a flourishing existence. This reflects the biblical principle that spiritual vitality and eternal life are intertwined with adherence to God's word.

guard my teachings
The word "guard" is again "שָׁמַר" (shamar), emphasizing the importance of vigilance and protection over God's teachings. "Teachings" here is "תּוֹרָה" (torah), which can mean law, instruction, or direction. The Torah was central to Jewish life, encompassing not just legalistic rules but divine guidance for living. To "guard" these teachings is to hold them in high esteem, ensuring they are not forgotten or neglected. This reflects a heart posture that treasures divine wisdom and seeks to apply it diligently.

as the apple of your eye
The phrase "apple of your eye" is a metaphorical expression that originates from the Hebrew "אִישׁוֹן עֵינֶךָ" (ishon ayin), literally meaning "little man of the eye," referring to the pupil. This imagery conveys something precious and vulnerable, requiring careful protection. In ancient cultures, the eye was considered the most sensitive and valuable part of the body, symbolizing something cherished and safeguarded. By comparing God's teachings to the "apple of your eye," the verse highlights the necessity of valuing and protecting divine wisdom with utmost care and priority, as one would protect their own sight. This metaphor calls believers to hold God's word in the highest regard, recognizing its critical role in guiding and preserving their spiritual vision and life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
Traditionally considered the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. He wrote Proverbs to impart wisdom and understanding.

2. The Father/Speaker
In the context of Proverbs, the speaker often takes on the role of a father figure imparting wisdom to a son or young person, emphasizing the importance of adhering to wisdom and instruction.

3. The Son/Listener
Represents the recipient of wisdom, often depicted as a young person or disciple who is encouraged to embrace and live by the teachings provided.

4. The Apple of Your Eye
A metaphorical expression used to describe something precious and highly valued, indicating the importance of guarding wisdom and commandments.

5. Wisdom Literature
Proverbs is part of the wisdom literature in the Bible, which includes books like Job and Ecclesiastes, focusing on practical and moral teachings.

Teaching Points

The Value of Obedience
Obedience to God's commandments is not just a duty but a path to life. Embracing God's teachings leads to spiritual vitality and protection.

Guarding Wisdom
Just as we protect our physical eyes from harm, we should diligently guard the wisdom and teachings of God. This involves active engagement and prioritization of God's Word in our lives.

The Preciousness of God's Word
Viewing God's commandments as the "apple of your eye" suggests they should be cherished and held in the highest regard. This perspective encourages us to meditate on and internalize Scripture.

Living by God's Commandments
The call to "live" by keeping commandments implies that true life, both abundant and eternal, is found in adherence to God's ways. This challenges us to align our daily actions with biblical principles.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the metaphor "apple of your eye" enhance your understanding of the value of God's commandments in your life?

2. In what ways can you actively "guard" God's teachings in your daily routine?

3. How does the concept of obedience in Proverbs 7:2 relate to Jesus' teachings in the New Testament about keeping His commandments?

4. Reflect on a time when following God's commandments led to a positive outcome in your life. How did this experience reinforce the importance of obedience?

5. How can you incorporate the wisdom of Proverbs 7:2 into your interactions with others, especially in guiding or mentoring relationships?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 32:10
This verse uses the phrase "apple of His eye" to describe God's care for Israel, emphasizing the preciousness and protection associated with this metaphor.

Psalm 17:8
The psalmist asks God to keep him as the "apple of Your eye," highlighting the desire for divine protection and care, similar to the protection one should give to wisdom.

John 14:15
Jesus speaks about the importance of keeping His commandments as a demonstration of love, paralleling the call in Proverbs to keep commandments and live.