Chapter
Verse

Proverbs 8:34

ESV Blessed is the one who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, waiting beside my doors.
NIV Blessed are those who listen to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway.
NASB Blessed is the person who listens to me, Watching daily at my gates, Waiting at my doorposts.
CSB Anyone who listens to me is happy, watching at my doors every day, waiting by the posts of my doorway.
NLT Joyful are those who listen to me, watching for me daily at my gates, waiting for me outside my home!
KJV Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors.
NKJV Blessed is the man who listens to me, Watching daily at my gates, Waiting at the posts of my doors.

What does Proverbs 8:34 mean?

Wisdom, personified by Solomon as a woman (Proverbs 8:1–4), has already noted the value of what she can offer (Proverbs 8:10–11). Here, again, the point is made that those who submit to godly wisdom are blessed. They resemble students who wait for the gates of their school to open or someone who is waiting at his door for an important visitor or message.

Proverbs—biblical or otherwise—are meant as general observations or statements of common sense. It's clear that following wisdom does not absolutely guarantee a life free from hardship or suffering (John 16:33). It should also be clear, however, that those who align with truth are more likely to experience success than those who are foolish. In that sense, wisdom can rightly speak of the benefits her lessons bring.

To be "blessed" means happy. People seek happiness in a variety of sources. Some look for happiness in personal relationships. Some hope to find happiness in money or success. Some seek it in popularity or fame. Some think they can find happiness in illicit pleasure. But true, lasting happiness is found only in Jesus. He spoke of His joy—full joy—coming to those who keep His commandments (John 15:10–11). The apostle Paul counseled the Philippians to rejoice in the Lord always (Philippians 4:4). His letter to the Philippians overflows with joy even though he was under house arrest. Our joy in Christ is indestructible and lasting because Jesus, its source, is indestructible and eternal.
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