Exegetical Brief: Train? Initiate? Or Dedicate?

Abstract

John F. Brug examines Proverbs 22:6, traditionally translated as “Train a child in the way he should go,” and explores its linguistic and theological nuances. He analyzes the Hebrew verb חנך, typically meaning “dedicate,” and suggests that the verse emphasizes initiating a child into a lifelong path of service to the Lord rather than merely instructing or training. Brug discusses the broader meaning of נַעַר (child or youth) and the phrase עַל־פִי דַרְכּוֹ, which may refer to the child’s individual path or, more likely, the way of the Lord. He cautions against interpreting the proverb as a guaranteed promise, noting that biblical proverbs often offer general wisdom rather than universal outcomes. The passage encourages parents to dedicate their children to God’s service, recognizing that faithful training is meaningful even if outcomes vary. Generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4).