Proverbs 1:2
Proverbs 1:2 in Multiple Translations
for gaining wisdom and discipline, for comprehending words of insight,
To know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding;
To know wisdom and instruction; To discern the words of understanding;
To have knowledge of wise teaching; to be clear about the words of reason:
They are for achieving wisdom and instruction, and to recognize sayings that bring insight.
To knowe wisdome, and instruction, to vnderstand ye wordes of knowledge,
For knowing wisdom and instruction, For understanding sayings of intelligence,
to know wisdom and instruction; to discern the words of understanding;
To know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding;
To know wisdom, and instruction:
◄These proverbs [PRS] can teach people/By studying these proverbs, people can learn► how to be wise and how to obey what these proverbs teach them. They will also help people to understand which teachings are wise.
Berean Amplified Bible — Proverbs 1:2
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Proverbs 1:2 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
לָ/דַ֣עַת
חָכְמָ֣ה
וּ/מוּסָ֑ר
לְ֝/הָבִ֗ין
אִמְרֵ֥י
בִינָֽה
לָ/דַ֣עַת
yâdaʻ
H3045
to know
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
חָכְמָ֣ה
chokmâh
H2451
wisdom
N-fs
וּ/מוּסָ֑ר
mûwçâr
H4148
discipline
Conj | N-ms
לְ֝/הָבִ֗ין
bîyn
H995
to understand
Prep | V-Hiphil-Inf-a
אִמְרֵ֥י
ʼêmer
H561
word
N-mp
בִינָֽה
bîynâh
H998
understanding
N-fs
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
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Hebrew Word Reference — Proverbs 1:2
לָ/דַ֣עַת
yâdaʻ
H3045
"to know"
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
The Hebrew word for to know means to ascertain by seeing, and is used in many senses, including to learn, perceive, and recognize, as seen in various KJV translations.
Definition: 1) to know 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to know 1a1a) to know, learn to know 1a1b) to perceive 1a1c) to perceive and see, find out and discern 1a1d) to discriminate, distinguish 1a1e) to know by experience 1a1f) to recognise, admit, acknowledge, confess 1a1g) to consider 1a2) to know, be acquainted with 1a3) to know (a person carnally) 1a4) to know how, be skilful in 1a5) to have knowledge, be wise 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be made known, be or become known, be revealed 1b2) to make oneself known 1b3) to be perceived 1b4) to be instructed 1c) (Piel) to cause to know 1d) (Poal) to cause to know 1e) (Pual) 1e1) to be known 1e2) known, one known, acquaintance (participle) 1f) (Hiphil) to make known, declare 1g) (Hophal) to be made known 1h) (Hithpael) to make oneself known, reveal oneself Aramaic equivalent: ye.da (יְדַע "to know" H3046)
Usage: Occurs in 874 OT verses. KJV: acknowledge, acquaintance(-ted with), advise, answer, appoint, assuredly, be aware, (un-) awares, can(-not), certainly, comprehend, consider, [idiom] could they, cunning, declare, be diligent, (can, cause to) discern, discover, endued with, familiar friend, famous, feel, can have, be (ig-) norant, instruct, kinsfolk, kinsman, (cause to let, make) know, (come to give, have, take) knowledge, have (knowledge), (be, make, make to be, make self) known, [phrase] be learned, [phrase] lie by man, mark, perceive, privy to, [idiom] prognosticator, regard, have respect, skilful, shew, can (man of) skill, be sure, of a surety, teach, (can) tell, understand, have (understanding), [idiom] will be, wist, wit, wot. See also: Genesis 3:5; Leviticus 5:4; Judges 21:12.
חָכְמָ֣ה
chokmâh
H2451
"wisdom"
N-fs
Wisdom refers to skill, prudence, or good judgment in areas like war, administration, or religion, as seen in the book of Proverbs.
Definition: 1) wisdom 1a) skill (in war) 1b) wisdom (in administration) 1c) shrewdness, wisdom 1d) wisdom, prudence (in religious affairs) 1e) wisdom (ethical and religious)
Usage: Occurs in 141 OT verses. KJV: skilful, wisdom, wisely, wit. See also: Exodus 28:3; Proverbs 5:1; Psalms 37:30.
וּ/מוּסָ֑ר
mûwçâr
H4148
"discipline"
Conj | N-ms
This Hebrew term means discipline or correction, often used to describe God's guidance. In Psalm 50:17, it warns against rejecting God's discipline, while in Proverbs 1:7, it emphasizes the importance of discipline in gaining wisdom. It involves learning from mistakes.
Definition: : discipline/punishment 1) discipline, chastening, correction 1a) discipline, correction 1b) chastening
Usage: Occurs in 50 OT verses. KJV: bond, chastening(-eth), chastisement, check, correction, discipline, doctrine, instruction, rebuke. See also: Deuteronomy 11:2; Proverbs 15:10; Psalms 50:17.
לְ֝/הָבִ֗ין
bîyn
H995
"to understand"
Prep | V-Hiphil-Inf-a
To understand or discern, this verb means to separate mentally and know something with your mind, as seen in Proverbs where it talks about gaining insight.
Definition: 1) to discern, understand, consider 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to perceive, discern 1a2) to understand, know (with the mind) 1a3) to observe, mark, give heed to, distinguish, consider 1a4) to have discernment, insight, understanding 1b) (Niphal) to be discerning, intelligent, discreet, have understanding 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to understand 1c2) to cause to understand, give understanding, teach 1d) (Hithpolel) to show oneself discerning or attentive, consider diligently 1e) (Polel) to teach, instruct 2) (TWOT) prudent, regard
Usage: Occurs in 162 OT verses. KJV: attend, consider, be cunning, diligently, direct, discern, eloquent, feel, inform, instruct, have intelligence, know, look well to, mark, perceive, be prudent, regard, (can) skill(-full), teach, think, (cause, make to, get, give, have) understand(-ing), view, (deal) wise(-ly, man). See also: Genesis 41:33; Psalms 139:2; Psalms 5:2.
אִמְרֵ֥י
ʼêmer
H561
"word"
N-mp
This Hebrew word refers to a word or speech, like a promise or command from God. It is used in books like Genesis and Exodus to describe God's conversations with people.
Definition: utterance, speech, word, saying, promise, command
Usage: Occurs in 47 OT verses. KJV: answer, [idiom] appointed unto him, saying, speech, word. See also: Genesis 49:21; Psalms 141:6; Psalms 5:2.
בִינָֽה
bîynâh
H998
"understanding"
N-fs
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means understanding or discernment, like having wisdom or knowledge. It appears in books like Proverbs and Psalms, guiding people to make good decisions.
Definition: 1) understanding, discernment 1a) act 1b) faculty 1c) object 1d) personified Aramaic equivalent: bi.nah (בִּינָה "understanding" H0999)
Usage: Occurs in 38 OT verses. KJV: knowledge, meaning, [idiom] perfectly, understanding, wisdom. See also: Deuteronomy 4:6; Proverbs 4:7; Proverbs 1:2.
Study Notes — Proverbs 1:2
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Proverbs 1:2 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 1:2
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 1:2
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 1:2
- Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 1:2
- Ellicott's Commentary on Proverbs 1:2
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 1:2
- Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 1:2
- Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 1:2
- Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 1:2
- Sermons on Proverbs 1:2
Context — The Beginning of Knowledge
1These are the proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel,
2for gaining wisdom and discipline, for comprehending words of insight,
3and for receiving instruction in wise living and in righteousness, justice, and equity. 4To impart prudence to the simple and knowledge and discretion to the young,Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Proverbs 7:4 | Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,” and call understanding your kinsman, |
| 2 | Deuteronomy 4:5–6 | See, I have taught you statutes and ordinances just as the LORD my God has commanded me, so that you may follow them in the land that you are about to enter and possess. Observe them carefully, for this will show your wisdom and understanding in the sight of the peoples, who will hear of all these statutes and say, “Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.” |
| 3 | 2 Timothy 3:15–17 | From infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work. |
| 4 | Proverbs 17:16 | Why should the fool have money in his hand with no intention of buying wisdom? |
| 5 | 1 Kings 3:9–12 | Therefore give Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people and to discern between good and evil. For who is able to govern this great people of Yours?” Now it pleased the Lord that Solomon had made this request. So God said to him, “Since you have asked for this instead of requesting long life or wealth for yourself or death for your enemies—but you have asked for discernment to administer justice— behold, I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there has never been nor will ever be another like you. |
| 6 | Proverbs 4:5–7 | Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or turn from them. Do not forsake wisdom, and she will preserve you; love her, and she will guard you. Wisdom is supreme; so acquire wisdom. And whatever you may acquire, gain understanding. |
| 7 | Proverbs 16:16 | How much better to acquire wisdom than gold! To gain understanding is more desirable than silver. |
| 8 | Proverbs 8:5 | O simple ones, learn to be shrewd; O fools, gain understanding. |
Proverbs 1:2 Summary
[Proverbs 1:2 is about gaining wisdom and discipline, which means learning to make good choices and live a responsible life, as seen in Proverbs 1:7. This verse reminds us that wisdom and discipline are essential for living a life that honors God. By seeking wisdom and discipline, we can better understand and apply the words of insight found in Scripture, such as in Psalms 119:130. As we strive to live out the principles of Proverbs 1:2, we can ask God for wisdom, as encouraged in James 1:5, and trust that He will provide us with the guidance and direction we need.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main purpose of the book of Proverbs according to Proverbs 1:2?
The main purpose is for gaining wisdom and discipline, as stated in Proverbs 1:2, which is in line with the overall theme of the book as seen in Proverbs 1:7 and throughout the book of Proverbs.
How does Proverbs 1:2 relate to the idea of discipline in the Bible?
The concept of discipline in Proverbs 1:2 is closely tied to the idea of correction and instruction, as seen in Hebrews 12:11, where discipline is described as a necessary part of spiritual growth and maturity.
What does 'comprehending words of insight' mean in Proverbs 1:2?
Comprehending words of insight in Proverbs 1:2 refers to the ability to understand and apply wise and discerning teachings, similar to what is described in Psalms 119:130, where the words of God's law bring light and understanding to the simple.
How can I apply the principles of Proverbs 1:2 in my daily life?
Applying the principles of Proverbs 1:2 involves seeking wisdom, discipline, and insight in your daily decisions and actions, as encouraged in James 1:5, where it is written that if you lack wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault.
Reflection Questions
- What are some areas in my life where I need to gain wisdom and discipline, and how can I apply the principles of Proverbs 1:2 to those areas?
- How can I cultivate a deeper understanding of the words of insight found in Scripture, and what role does meditation and reflection play in this process?
- In what ways can I demonstrate a willingness to learn and receive instruction, as described in Proverbs 1:2, and what are the potential benefits of doing so?
- How does Proverbs 1:2 relate to my relationships with others, and what does it mean to live out the principles of wisdom and discipline in my interactions with family, friends, and community?
Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 1:2
To know wisdom and instruction,.... That is, these proverbs were made, and written, and published, to make known or to teach men wisdom and knowledge; not only in things moral, and therefore these
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 1:2
To know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding; To know wisdom - depending on Proverbs 1:1. The proverbs of Solomon are designed that all may by them know wisdom.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 1:2
To know; written to help men to know thoroughly and practically. Wisdom; both human wisdom, to conduct our affairs in this life, which divers of the following proverbs do; and especially Divine wisdom, which Solomon chiefly designed; or to make men wise to know their duty, and to save their souls. Instruction; the counsels and instructions delivered, either by God or by men, in order to the attainment of wisdom. Words of understanding; either, 1. Which are the effects of a good understanding; or, 2. Which teach a man true understanding, whereby to discern between truth and error, between good and evil, to choose the former, and to refuse the latter.
Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 1:2
Proverbs 1:2 To know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding;Ver. 2. To know wisdom.] That is, To give others to know; to wise them, as in Daniel 12:3; to give the knowledge of salvation; to show men "great and mighty things which they know not," but may here hence be taught better than out of Lipsius’ s Beehive or Machiavel’ s Spider web.
Ellicott's Commentary on Proverbs 1:2
(2) To know.—That is, they are written that one may know. The writer in this and the following verses heaps up synonyms with which to bring out the wide purpose of the instruction he offers. Wisdom (chokhmah).—The original meaning of this word is “firmness,” “solidity,” having an opinion based upon sound reasons; the opposite state of mind to being “carried about with every wind of doctrine” (Ephesians 4:14). Instruction (mûsâr).—Or rather, discipline, the knowledge how to keep oneself under control. (Comp. 2 Peter 1:6 : “Add to your knowledge temperance,” or self-control.) To perceive the words of understanding.—Comp. Hebrews 5:14 : “To have the senses exercised to discern both good and evil.” (Comp. also Philippians 1:10.) The opposite condition to this is having the heart made “fat” (Isaiah 6:10) by continuance in evil, so that it can no longer understand.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 1:2
Verse 2. To know wisdom] That is, this is the design of parabolical writing in general; and the particular aim of the present work. This and the two following verses contain the interpretation of the term parable, and the author's design in the whole book. The first verse is the title, and the next three verses are an explanation of the nature and design of this very important tract. Wisdom] חכמה chochmah may mean here, and in every other part of this book, not only that Divine science by which we are enabled to discover the best end, and pursue it by the most proper means; but also the whole of that heavenly teaching that shows us both ourselves and God, directs us into all truth, and forms the whole of true religion. And instruction] מוסר musar, the teaching that discovers all its parts, to understand, to comprehend the words or doctrines which should be comprehended, in order that we may become wise to salvation.
Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 1:2
The Introduction. Chap. Proverbs 1:2-7 The Introduction consists of a statement of the object of the Book (Proverbs 1:2-6), which is primarily to instruct the young in Wisdom (Proverbs 1:4), but at the same time to increase the store of those who are already wise (Proverbs 1:5); and also of a kind of motto, or enunciation of the basis and ruling principle of all the teaching which is to follow (Proverbs 1:7).
Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 1:2
The writer’s purpose is to educate. He is writing what might be called an ethical handbook for the young, though not for the young only.
Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 1:2
2. As in the first verse we have the title of the book, so in this and the following verses, to the sixth, we have its design or object stated and explained.
Sermons on Proverbs 1:2
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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The Struggle Is Real by Shane Idleman | Shane Idleman emphasizes the reality of the struggle to obey God's wisdom in his sermon 'The Struggle Is Real.' He discusses how wisdom, as outlined in Proverbs, is essential for m |
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Freedom From Anger and Sexual Lust by Zac Poonen | This sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom and holiness in our lives by addressing the struggles with hidden sins like anger and sexual temptation. It highlights the n |
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The Importance of Biblical Family Life for the Spread of the Gospel by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of prioritizing family and spending quality time with loved ones. He urges men to imagine the last moments with their wives a |
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Loved With Everlasting Love - Part 3 by Paris Reidhead | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the process of receiving the word of God. He emphasizes the importance of being awakened to the danger of self-love and selfishness, and bein |
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Where in the World Is the Church? by Paul Washer | Paul Washer emphasizes the urgent need for the church to return to the sufficiency of Scripture and the importance of deep theological understanding. He laments the current state o |
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Question and Answer - Part 3 (W/ Paul Washer) by Voddie Baucham | Voddie Baucham, in his sermon with Paul Washer, discusses the nature of genuine salvation, particularly in children, emphasizing that a lack of dramatic change does not equate to a |
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What's Wrong With Preaching Today? by Albert N. Martin | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power and weight of the Scriptures. He explains that the key to a powerful sermon lies in packing it with solid biblical substance, maki |