Proverbs 1:9
ESV
for they are a graceful garland for your head and pendants for your neck.
NIV
They are a garland to grace your head and a chain to adorn your neck.
NASB
For they are a graceful wreath for your head And necklaces for your neck.
CSB
for they will be a garland of favor on your head and pendants around your neck.
NLT
What you learn from them will crown you with grace and be a chain of honor around your neck.
KJV
For they shall be an ornament of grace unto thy head, and chains about thy neck.
NKJV
For they will be a graceful ornament on your head, And chains about your neck.
What does Proverbs 1:9 mean?
Verse 9 likens our parents to a garland or a pendant. This custom of adorning oneself with jewelry has not changed much in thousands of years. Jewelry is a status symbol and serves as an item of beautification. Solomon gives a clear picture that parents (more specifically the instructions of parents) are not to be despised. Instead, they should be seen as treasures.The wise instructions of a parent, like fine jewelry, are often obtained at great cost. They have history, value, and can even be passed along to future generations. Further, those who actively use the wisdom of their parents will see it reflected in their lives. Other people will notice the wise choices, wise behavior, and wise words, just as someone will notice the fine jewelry a person puts on. In terms of wisdom, this is far better than jewelry, since wisdom can be spread to others who see it and learn from it.
