Old Testament
Proverbs 3:18
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
She is a tree of life to those who lay hold of her, and happy is everyone who retains her.
Compare translations
She is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy is every one that retaineth her.
What Proverbs 3:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, wisdom is personified as a woman who offers life and happiness to those who embrace her. The metaphor of a "tree of life" suggests that wisdom provides nourishment, growth, and vitality. Just as a tree gives fruit and shade, wisdom enriches our lives and helps us make better choices. The verse emphasizes the importance of actively seeking and holding onto wisdom, implying that it requires effort and commitment. Those who do so will find joy and fulfillment in their lives. The happiness mentioned is not just fleeting pleasure but a deep, lasting contentment that comes from living wisely. This verse encourages readers to value wisdom highly and to pursue it diligently, as it leads to a more meaningful and prosperous life.
How to apply Proverbs 3:18 to your life
To apply this verse, prioritize seeking wisdom in daily decisions. Engage in learning through reading, discussions, and reflection. By valuing and retaining wisdom, you can experience deeper joy and make choices that lead to a fulfilling life.
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 Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Joseph Is Born (Genesis 30:22–24)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Joseph, Jacob's son
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. 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.
Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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 3:18
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 3:18
Related Bible verses
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 3:18 mean?
Proverbs 3:18 means that wisdom is like a nurturing tree that brings life and happiness to those who embrace and hold onto it. It highlights the importance of actively seeking wisdom for a fulfilling life.
What is the meaning of 'tree of life' in Proverbs 3:18?
In Proverbs 3:18, 'tree of life' symbolizes wisdom as a source of nourishment and vitality. Just as a tree provides fruit and shade, wisdom enriches our lives and helps us make better choices.
How can I apply Proverbs 3:18 in my life?
To apply Proverbs 3:18, prioritize seeking wisdom in your daily decisions by engaging in learning and reflection. Valuing and retaining wisdom can lead to deeper joy and better choices.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.