Old Testament
Proverbs 19:27
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Stop, my son, listening to instruction that leads you away from the words of knowledge.
Compare translations
Cease, my son, to hear the instruction that causeth to err from the words of knowledge.
What Proverbs 19:27 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a father advises his son to stop listening to teachings or advice that lead him away from true knowledge and wisdom. The instruction emphasizes the importance of discerning the sources of information one chooses to follow. It warns against being swayed by false teachings or distractions that can lead to poor decisions and a lack of understanding. The father is concerned that such misguided instruction can lead the son away from the path of wisdom and understanding, which are essential for a fulfilling and righteous life. This verse serves as a reminder to seek out and adhere to sound teachings that align with truth and knowledge, rather than those that may seem appealing but ultimately lead to confusion and error.
How to apply Proverbs 19:27 to your life
To apply this verse, regularly evaluate the sources of information and advice you follow. Seek out mentors, books, and teachings that align with truth and wisdom. Avoid influences that lead you away from sound understanding, ensuring your choices are grounded in knowledge.
Curated for this public verse page. Proverbs Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Ruth

Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Proverbs 19:27
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Proverbs 19:27
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Proverbs
- Author
- Primarily Solomon, with other contributors
- Written
- Around 950-700 BC
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- Young people and all seeking wisdom
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Proverbs 19:27 mean?
Proverbs 19:27 advises individuals to stop listening to teachings that lead them away from true knowledge. It emphasizes the importance of discerning the sources of information to avoid poor decisions and confusion.
What is the meaning of instruction in Proverbs 19:27?
In Proverbs 19:27, 'instruction' refers to teachings or advice that can influence one's understanding and choices. The verse warns against following misguided instruction that can lead to errors in judgment.
How can I apply Proverbs 19:27 in my life?
To apply Proverbs 19:27, regularly assess the advice and teachings you follow. Focus on sources that promote wisdom and understanding, and steer clear of those that may mislead you.
What themes are present in Proverbs 19:27?
Key themes in Proverbs 19:27 include wisdom, discernment, the importance of sound instruction, and parental guidance. The verse highlights the need to be aware of false teachings that can lead to confusion.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.