All her ways are pleasant
This phrase refers to the wisdom personified in Proverbs, often depicted as a woman. The "ways" of wisdom are described as "pleasant," indicating that following wisdom leads to a life of satisfaction and joy. In biblical context, the pursuit of wisdom is consistently associated with positive outcomes (Proverbs 2:10-11). The Hebrew word for "pleasant" can also mean delightful or agreeable, suggesting that wisdom's guidance is not burdensome but rather brings contentment. This aligns with the broader biblical theme that God's commandments are not meant to be restrictive but to lead to a fulfilling life (Psalm 19:8-10). Historically, wisdom literature in the ancient Near East often emphasized the benefits of living wisely, which included social harmony and personal well-being.

and all her paths are peaceful
The "paths" of wisdom are described as "peaceful," indicating that living according to wisdom brings about peace and tranquility. This peace is not merely the absence of conflict but a holistic sense of well-being and harmony with God, others, and oneself. The Hebrew word for "peaceful" is "shalom," which encompasses completeness, soundness, and welfare. This concept of peace is deeply rooted in the covenant relationship between God and His people, where obedience to God's wisdom results in peace (Isaiah 32:17). In the New Testament, Jesus is referred to as the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6), and His teachings often echo the wisdom literature's call to live in peace with others (Matthew 5:9). The peaceful paths of wisdom can also be seen as a type of Christ, who embodies ultimate wisdom and leads His followers into true peace (John 14:27).

1. Solomon
- Traditionally considered the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. Proverbs is a collection of his wise sayings.

2. Wisdom
- Personified as a woman in Proverbs, wisdom is depicted as offering guidance and leading to a life of peace and pleasantness.

3. Ancient Israel
- The cultural and historical context in which Proverbs was written, where wisdom literature was highly valued.The Nature of Wisdom
Wisdom is not just intellectual knowledge but a way of life that leads to pleasantness and peace.

The Pursuit of Peace
True wisdom leads to peace, both internally and externally. Pursuing wisdom is a pursuit of peace in our relationships and within ourselves.

The Path of Righteousness
Walking in wisdom is synonymous with walking in righteousness, which brings about a life of harmony and contentment.

The Role of Scripture
Engaging with Scripture is essential in gaining wisdom. The Bible provides the guidance needed to walk in wisdom's peaceful paths.

Practical Wisdom
Applying wisdom in daily decisions leads to a more fulfilling and less tumultuous life. Seek wisdom in all areas of life, from personal relationships to professional endeavors.(17) Peace.--The highest reward of the New Testament for the life of thankful dependence upon God (Philippians 4:6-7).

Verse 17. - Ways of pleasantness (dar'key noam); Vulgate, viae pulchrae; LXX., ὁδοὶ καλαὶ. Wisdom's ways are those in which substantial delight may be found. They are beautiful and lovely to look upon, and afford happiness. All her paths are peace (v'kal-n'thivo-theyah shalom); literally, as in the Authorized Version. "Peace," shalom, is not genitive as "pleasantness." The character of peace is stamped upon her paths, so that in speaking of Wisdom's paths we speak of peace. She brings tranquillity and serenity and blessedness. Her paths are free from strife and alarm, and they lead to peace. (On the distinction between "ways" and "paths" - the more open and the more private walks - see Proverbs 2:15.)

Parallel Commentaries ...


Her ways
דְּרָכֶ֥יהָ (də·rā·ḵe·hā)
Noun - common plural construct | third person feminine singular
Strong's 1870: A road, a course of life, mode of action

are pleasant,
נֹ֑עַם (nō·‘am)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 5278: Agreeableness, delight, suitableness, splendor, grace

and all
וְֽכָל־ (wə·ḵāl)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 3605: The whole, all, any, every

her paths
נְתִ֖יבוֹתֶ֣יהָ (nə·ṯî·ḇō·w·ṯe·hā)
Noun - feminine plural construct | third person feminine singular
Strong's 5410: Path, pathway

[are] peaceful.
שָׁלֽוֹם׃ (šā·lō·wm)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 7965: Safe, well, happy, friendly, welfare, health, prosperity, peace


Proverbs 3:17 NIV
Proverbs 3:17 NLT
Proverbs 3:17 ESV
Proverbs 3:17 NASB
Proverbs 3:17 KJV

Proverbs 3:17 BibleApps.com
Proverbs 3:17 Biblia Paralela
Proverbs 3:17 Chinese Bible
Proverbs 3:17 French Bible
Proverbs 3:17 Catholic Bible

OT Poetry: Proverbs 3:17 Her ways are ways of pleasantness (Prov. Pro Pr)