This verse explains the reward that is given for keeping the commands in verse 1.

“For length of days and years of life”: “For”, together with the subject and verb “they will give” at the end, links this verse to the previous verse as the reason why the learner should treasure the words of the teacher. “Length of . . . life” is “many days and many years” or a long life, as promised in the traditional language of Exo 20.12.

“Abundant welfare will they give you” is literally “They will add peace [Hebrew shalom] to you,” where shalom refers to peace, prosperity, wholeness, health, and completeness of life. It is remembering and practicing the wisdom teachings that will bring the learner this reward. Contemporary English Version says “They will help you live a long and prosperous life.” :Bible en français courant says “Thanks to my advice you will experience well-being and have a long and happy life.”

Quoted with permission from Reyburn, William D. and Fry, Euan McG. A Handbook on Proverbs. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2000. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .