Proverbs 13:14 Meaning and Explanation
“The law of the wise is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Wise teaching is life-giving and protects from deadly traps.
The Context of Proverbs 13:14
Uses water imagery to present wisdom as both generative and protective.
What Does Proverbs 13:14 Mean?
The law (instruction, teaching) of the wise functions as a fountain of life—a source of refreshment, growth, and vitality. It flows continuously, nourishing all who drink from it. To follow such teaching is to be fed spiritually and practically, sustaining existence at its best.
This living water also provides protection: it helps a person avoid the snares of death. By following wisdom, one sidesteps the traps that ensnare the foolish—destructive habits, broken relationships, compromised integrity, and spiritual death. Wisdom is simultaneously creative and protective.
Frequently Asked Questions About Proverbs 13:14
What does Proverbs 13:14 mean?
Wise teaching is life-giving and protects from deadly traps.
What is the context of Proverbs 13:14?
Uses water imagery to present wisdom as both generative and protective.