Proverbs 1:6 — Word Study
WLCלְהָבִ֣ין מָ֭שָׁל וּמְלִיצָ֑ה דִּבְרֵ֥י חֲ֝כָמִ֗ים וְחִידֹתָֽם׃
BSAby understandingbîyn [discerning, perceiving] the proverbsmâshâl [wise sayings, teachings] and parablesmᵉlîytsâh the sayingsdâbâr [words, expressions] and riddleschîydâh [puzzles, dark sayings] of the wisechâkâm [intelligent, skilled, prudent]
| Greek | English | Parsing |
|---|---|---|
| לְהָבִ֣ין | to understand | Preposition, verb hiphil infinitive construct common |
| מָ֭שָׁל | a proverb | Noun common, masculine singular absolute |
| וּמְלִיצָ֑ה | and an enigma | Conjunction, noun common feminine singular absolute |
| דִּבְרֵ֥י | [the] words of | Noun common, masculine plural construct |
| חֲ֝כָמִ֗ים | learned ones | Adj |
| וְחִידֹתָֽם׃ | and parables their | Conjunction, noun common feminine plural construct, suffix |
Every word in the verse. Click a row to open it in the panel on the left.
| BSB | by understanding the proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise. |
| KJV | To understand a proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings. |
| ASV | To understand a proverb, and a figure, The words of the wise, and their dark sayings. |
| YLT | For understanding a proverb and its sweetness, Words of the wise and their acute sayings. |
| WEB | to understand a proverb and parables, the words and riddles of the wise. |
| BBE | To get the sense of wise sayings and secrets, and of the words of the wise and their dark sayings. |
The translations agree on the key terms in this verse, particularly regarding the understanding of proverbs and parables.
The main clause introduces the action of understanding, supported by noun phrases that specify what is to be understood.
8 commentators on this verse
Gill, Jamieson, Poole, Trapp & more — read them ›
clause
The sentence as the grammar sees it Open the tree ›
Every word here is used elsewhere in the Old Testament.
Bars are logarithmic — אֵת, the commonest word in the Hebrew Bible, stands about 11,000 times, so a linear scale would leave everything else invisible. Click a row to open that word.
Deep Study — Proverbs 1:6
Sections marked generated are written from the data on this page rather than by a named author. Everything else — the lexicon entries, the cross references, the manuscript readings, the counts — is quoted from its source unchanged.
Context — The Purpose of Proverbsgenerated
Proverbs 1:6 highlights the necessity of understanding the various forms of wisdom, including proverbs, parables, and riddles. This verse serves as a guide for readers to seek insight and discernment from the teachings of the wise, as it follows a call to listen and learn in Proverbs 1:5 and precedes the foundational statement about the fear of the LORD in Proverbs 1:7.
Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Matthew 13:10–17 | Then the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Why do You speak to the people in parables?” |
| 2 | Mark 4:11–34 | He replied, “The mystery of the kingdom of God has been given to you, but to those on the outside everything is expressed in parables, |
| 3 | Acts 8:30–31 | So Philip ran up and heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet. “Do you understand what you are reading?” Philip asked. |
| 4 | Ecclesiastes 12:11 | The words of the wise are like goads, and the anthologies of the masters are like firmly embedded nails driven by a single Shepherd. |
| 5 | Psalm 49:4 | I will incline my ear to a proverb; I will express my riddle with the harp: |
The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge — 9 references, hung on the phrase they belong to
The Key Word — בִּין, le.ha.Vingenerated
The verb בִּין (biyn) is a hiphil infinitive construct meaning 'to understand' or 'to discern.' It involves mental separation and insight, allowing one to grasp deeper meanings. This word is often used in contexts that require careful consideration and insight, emphasizing the importance of wisdom in decision-making.
Understanding is not merely about knowledge; it is about discerning the underlying principles and truths in wise sayings, as seen throughout the book of Proverbs.
How Translations Differ — measured against the Berean Standard Biblegenerated
The translations agree on the use of 'understanding' for בִּין, while the word מָשָׁל is rendered as 'proverb' in all versions.
Sentence Structuregenerated
The finite verb לְהָבִ֣ין (le.ha.Vin) governs the entire structure, indicating the action of understanding. This verb is followed by a series of noun phrases that elaborate on what is to be understood: proverbs, parables, sayings, and riddles.
The sentence is structured to emphasize the importance of understanding these various forms of wisdom, with each noun phrase contributing to the overall meaning.
Septuagint Backgroundgenerated
The Septuagint translates מָשָׁל as παραβολὴν (parabolēn), which means 'parable.' This choice indicates a broader interpretation, as parables often convey deeper moral or spiritual lessons.
The use of αἰνίγματα (ainigmata) for חִידָה suggests a focus on the enigmatic nature of wisdom, reinforcing the idea that understanding requires effort and insight.
In plain words — the whole versegenerated
Proverbs 1:6 teaches that understanding the wise sayings, parables, and riddles is crucial for gaining insight. This verse encourages readers to seek wisdom and discernment from the teachings of the wise.
Frequently Asked Questionsgenerated
It means to grasp the deeper meanings and lessons conveyed through these wise sayings, which often use metaphors and comparisons.
By reflecting on the proverbs and parables, one can gain insight into making wise decisions and understanding life's complexities.
Riddles challenge the mind and encourage deeper thinking, helping to develop discernment and insight.
The fear of the LORD is foundational for knowledge and wisdom, as it acknowledges God's authority and guidance in understanding.
Reflection Questionsgenerated
- How can I seek to understand the wisdom found in proverbs and parables?
- What are some examples of proverbs that have helped me make wise decisions?
- In what ways do riddles and puzzles challenge my understanding of deeper truths?
- How does the fear of the LORD influence my pursuit of knowledge and wisdom?
The early church on this verse — how the Fathers read it
Early Church Fathers commented on the nature of wisdom and understanding found in this verse, emphasizing the hidden meanings within proverbs.
We must observe that not every time something is named “darkness” is it taken in a bad sense; there are times when it has also been used in a good sense.Early Church Fathers on Proverbs 1 →
It is universally admitted that the name of “proverb,” in its scriptural use, is not applied with regard to the evident sense but is used with a view to some hidden meaning,Early Church Fathers on Proverbs 1 →
[Daniel 2:22] "It is He who reveals deep and hidden things, and He knows what is placed in the darkness,Early Church Fathers on Proverbs 1 →
Commentators on this verse — 8 expositors, verse by verse
Each of these wrote on Proverbs 1:6 itself, not merely on the chapter around it.
John Gill1697–1771Gill's Exposition of the Entire BibleTo understand a proverb, and the interpretation,.... This may be connected either with the first verse, "the proverbs of Solomon", c.
Read John Gill on Proverbs 1 →Robert Jamieson1802–1880Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown's CommentaryTo understand a proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings.
Read Robert Jamieson on Proverbs 1 →Matthew Poole1624–1679Matthew Poole's Commentary on the Holy BibleThe interpretation, i.e. the interpretation of a proverb, by a figure called hendiaduo, or the meaning and use of the wise sayings of God, or of men; to know this practically, and for his direction and benefit; for practice is the great design of this book. Dark savings; such as are hard to be understood by inconsiderate and ungodly men, but to be found out by diligent and humble inquiry.
Read Matthew Poole on Proverbs 1 →John Trapp1601–1669Trapp's Complete Commentary on the Old and New TestamentsProverbs 1:6 To understand a proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings.Ver. 6. To understand a proverb, and the interpretation.] Or, The sweetness thereof; there being nothing so sweet to a good soul as the knowledge of dark and deep mysteries. See Psalms 119:103 where the same word is used. The little book of the Revelation was in John’ s mouth sweet as honey. And their dark sayings.] Dark to those that are acute obtusi, that have not their "senses exercised to discern both good and evil." Legum obscuritates non assignemus culpae scribentium sed inscitiae non assequentium, saith he in Gellius. If the law be dark to any, the fault is not in the lawgiver…
Read John Trapp on Proverbs 1 →Charles John Ellicott1819–1905Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers(6) Interpretation.—Or an obscure thing which needs interpretation, so corresponding to “dark sayings.” Dark sayings.—Literally knots, intricate sayings, like Samson’s riddle (Judges 14:12).
Read Charles John Ellicott on Proverbs 1 →AdamClarkeAdam Clarke's Commentary on the BibleVerse 6. Dark sayings.] חידת chidoth, enigmas or riddles, in which the Asiatics abounded. I believe parables, such as those delivered by our Lord, nearly express the meaning of the original.
Read AdamClarke on Proverbs 1 →CambridgeThe Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges6. This verse intimates that the aim of the Book is to confer an initiation which will make its possessor free of all the mysteries of the Wise. By understanding these proverbs he will acquire the power of understanding all proverbs. (See Mark 4:13, and Speaker’s Comm. on this verse.) interpretation] So R.V. marg., and Vulg. interpretationem. So too Gesenius, “properly, interpretation, and so what needs an interpretation, an enigma.” But it is better to render, a figure, R.V. text. σκοτεινὸνλόγον, LXX. aculeate dicta, Maur. Comp. Habakkuk 2:6, the only other place where the Heb. word occurs. the wise] Lit. wise men. There is no article. But perhaps the reference is to a recognised class of…
Read Cambridge on Proverbs 1 →Albert Barnes1798–1870Barnes' Notes on the BibleThe book has yet a further scope; these proverbs are to form a habit of mind. To gain through them the power of entering into the deeper meaning of other proverbs, is the end kept in view. Compare Matt. 13.
Read Albert Barnes on Proverbs 1 →The verse in English, compared — 17 translations, and where they part company
Every translation on this page is a decision someone had to make and commit to. Read down a column and you see one translator's judgement; read across a row and you see the range the Greek actually allows. The BSB is the wording the rest of this page is measured against, so it is listed first.
Modern formal
by understanding the proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise.
to understand a proverb and parables, the words and riddles of the wise.
by understanding the proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise.
To discern the meaning of a proverb and a parable, the sayings of the wise and their riddles.
Tyndale line
To understand a proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings.
To understand a proverb, and a figure, The words of the wise, and their dark sayings.
To understand a proverb, and a figure; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings.
To understand a proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings.
To vnderstand a parable, and the interpretation, the wordes of ye wise, and their darke sayings.
Strictly literal
to understand a proverb and an allegory, the words of the wise and their enigmas.
For understanding a proverb and its sweetness, Words of the wise and their acute sayings.
For understanding a proverb and its sweetness, || Words of the wise and their acute sayings.
To understand a proverb, and a sage sentence; the words of the wise, and their riddles.
to understand proverbs, sayings, and words of wise people and their riddles.
From the Latin
He shall understand a parable, and the interpretation, the words of the wise, and their mysterious sayings.
Simplified
understanding the proverbs and puzzles, the sayings and questions of the wise.
To get the sense of wise sayings and secrets, and of the words of the wise and their dark sayings.
Counted from the translations carried on this site, not from a survey of every English Bible. A rendering shared by many versions is usually inherited rather than independently arrived at — the Tyndale line in particular runs through most of them.
The sentence as the grammar sees it — from the MACULA Hebrew treebank
This is not our own analysis: it is the scholarly syntax tree for the verse, showing how the clause actually holds together.
Boxes are the grammarian's groupings — clause, noun phrase, prepositional phrase.
The four witnesses to this verse — Masoretic, Septuagint, Samaritan, Qumran
The Masoretic Text and the Septuagint largely agree in content, with five out of six words matched. The Septuagint's word order and articles differ, but the essential meanings remain consistent.
לְהָבִ֣ין מָ֭שָׁל וּמְלִיצָ֑ה דִּבְרֵ֥י חֲ֝כָמִ֗ים וְחִידֹתָֽם׃
5 of the 6 words are matched. This is the word-by-word correspondence, not the Septuagint's own sentence — its word order and its articles are its own.
Four traditions, not one. “On the leather” means the letters physically survive on the scroll, as against letters an editor has supplied to fill a hole in it — a restoration is a scholar’s reading, not a reading of the manuscript. Words in [square brackets] are supplied; the notes count them apart from what survives.
The map of this verse — what each word keeps company with
This is a map of two things, both counted rather than judged. Company kept: which words stand within three words of each of these, anywhere in the Hebrew Bible — the thicker the line, the more often the pair meet compared with chance. Built from: the words a word is made out of, taken from its own Strong’s entry. It is not a map of meaning: nothing here claims two words mean the same thing. Click any circle to see the numbers behind it.
Lexicons — every word in Proverbs 1:6
One dossier per word, with every reference work grouped by kind — Hebrew lexicons, morphology, Bible dictionaries, topical chains and the English of the translators themselves. The verse sits at the head of each block with the word under study lit, so you never lose your place. The panel above gives the short answer; this is the long one, and it is the part of the page worth indexing.
Every entry below is the lexicographer's own text. On the Hebrew: Brown-Driver-Briggs entire and its gloss set, Strong's Hebrew Dictionary, and Tyndale House's Translators Brief lexicon. Where a cell says a work has no entry, that work genuinely has none for this word.
בִּין (biyn) is a Hebrew verb meaning to discern or understand. It encompasses a range of meanings including perceiving, considering, and teaching, with various forms indicating different nuances, such as being intelligent or discreet. The entries highlight its use in contexts requiring mental separation or insight, but do not present any significant disagreement among lexicographers.
בִּין vb. discern
Qal
perceive
understand, know (with mind)
observe, mark, give heed to, distinguish, consider (with attention)
have discernment, insight, understanding
Niph. be intelligent, discreet, discerning, distinguish, have understanding
Po. he attentively considereth him
Hiph.
understand
give heed to, attend to, observe, discern
give understanding, make understand, teach
Hithp.
shew oneself attentive, consider diligently
get understanding, understand
shew oneself to have understanding
base
H995 בִּין discern .. perceive
. understand, know (with mind)
. observe, mark, give heed to, distinguish, consider (with attention)
. have discernment, insight, understanding
. be intelligent, discreet, discerning, distinguish, have understanding
. he attentively considereth him
. . understand
. give heed to, attend to, observe, discern
. give understanding, make understand, teach
. . shew oneself attentive, consider diligently
. get understanding, understand
. shew oneself to have understanding
995 biyn bene
a primitive root; to separate mentally (or distinguish),
i.e.(generally) understand:--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).
בִּין (bin) — to understand.
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
Prep | V-Hiphil-Inf-a — Preposition · verb hiphil infinitive construct commonHR/Vhcc
מָשָׁל (mashal) refers to a proverb or parable, often characterized by parallelism and typically found in Hebrew Wisdom literature. It encompasses various forms such as aphorisms, bywords, and ethical maxims. The word is derived from a root suggesting superiority in mental action, indicating its metaphorical nature.
מָשָׁל n.m. proverb, parable (of sentences constructed in parallelism, usu. of Hebrew Wisdom, but occas. of other types)
base
H4912 מָשָׁל proverb, parable (of sentences constructed in parallelism, usu. of Hebrew Wisdom, but occas. of other types)
4912 mashal maw-shawl'
apparently from 4910 in some original sense of superiority in
mental action; properly, a pithy maxim, usually of
metaphorical nature; hence, a simile (as an adage, poem,
discourse):--byword, like, parable, proverb.
see HEBREW for 04910
מָשָׁל (ma.shal) — proverb.
1) proverb, parable
1a) proverb, proverbial saying, aphorism
1b) byword
1c) similitude, parable
1d) poem
1e) sentences of ethical wisdom, ethical maxims
N-ms — Noun common · masculine singular absoluteHNcmsa
prov'-erb (mashal, chidhah; parabole (Lu 4:23), paroimia (Joh 16:25,29)):
I. FOLK MEANING AND USE
1. The Primitive Sense
2. The Communal Origin
3. Animus of Proverbs
II. LITERARY DEVELOPMENT OF THE PROVERB
1. Discovery of Literary Value
2. The Differentiation
III. AS UNIT OF A STRAIN OF LITERATURE
1. From Detachment to Continuity
2. The Conception of Wisdom
3. In Later Times
By this term mainly, but sometimes by the term "parable" (e.g. Nu 23:7,18; 24:3,15; Job 27:1; 29:1), is translated the Hebrew word (mashal), which designates the formal unit or vehicle of didactic discourse. The mashal was an enunciation of truth, self-evident and self-illustrative, in some pointed or concentrated…
Proverb
A trite maxim; a similitude; a parable. The Hebrew word thus rendered (mashal) has a wide signification. It comes from a root meaning “to be like,” “parable.” Rendered “proverb” in Isa. 14:4; Hab. 2:6; “dark saying” in Ps. 49:4, Num. 12:8. Ahab’s defiant words in answer to the insolent demands of Benhadad, “Let not him that girdeth on his harness boast himself as he that putteth it off,” is a well known instance of a proverbial saying (1 Kings 20:11).
מְלִיצָה (mliytsah) refers to a form of expression such as an aphorism, satire, or mockery. It encompasses meanings related to interpretation, taunting, and mocking poems or songs. The word is derived from a root that suggests a connection to the act of speaking or expressing in a figurative manner.
מְלִיצָה n.[f.] satire, mocking-poem
base
H4426 מְלִיצָה
4426 mliytsah mel-ee-tsaw'
from 3887; an aphorism; also a satire:--interpretation,
taunting.
see HEBREW for 03887
מְלִיצָה (me.li.tsah) — mockery.
satire, mocking poem, mocking song, taunting, figure, enigma
Conj | N-fs — Conjunction · noun common feminine singular absoluteHC/Ncfsa
e-nig'-ma.
See GAMES.
דָּבָר (dabar) means 'word' or 'speech' and encompasses a range of meanings including discourse, saying, and matter. It can refer to anything spoken or a topic of discussion, extending to concepts like business or affairs. The entries consistently highlight its use in various contexts, but do not indicate any significant disagreement among lexicographers.
דָּבָר 1439 n.m. speech, word
sg. speech, discourse, saying, word, as the sum of that which is spoken
sg. saying, utterance, sentence, as a section of a discourse
sg. a word, words
sg. matter, affair, thing about which one speaks
base
H1697 דָּבָר speech, word . sg. speech, discourse, saying, word, as the sum of that which is spoken
. sg. saying, utterance, sentence, as a section of a discourse
. sg. a word, words
. sg. matter, affair, thing about which one speaks
1697 dabar daw-baw'
from 1696; a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or
thing; adverbially, a cause:--act, advice, affair, answer, X
any such (thing), because of, book, business, care, case,
cause, certain rate, + chronicles, commandment, X
commune(-ication), + concern(-ing), + confer, counsel, +
dearth, decree, deed, X disease, due, duty, effect, +
eloquent, errand, (evil favoured-)ness, + glory, + harm, hurt,
+ iniquity, + judgment, language, + lying, manner, matter,
message, (no) thing, oracle, X ought, X parts, + pertaining, +
please, portion, + power, promise, provision, purpose,
question, rate, reason, report, request, X (as hast) said,
sake, saying, sentence, + sign, + so, some (uncleanness),
somewhat to say, + song, speech, X spoken, talk, task, + that,
X there done, thing (concerning), thought, + thus, tidings,
what(-soever), + wherewith, which, word, work.
see HEBREW for 01696
דָּבָר (da.var) — word.
: word/speech/command
1) speech, word, speaking, thing
1a) speech
1b) saying, utterance
1c) word, words
1d) business, occupation, acts, matter, case, something, manner (by extension)
דָּבָר (da.var) — word: speaking.
: speaking
1) speech, word, speaking, thing
1a) speech
1b) saying, utterance
1c) word, words
1d) business, occupation, acts, matter, case, something, manner (by extension)
דָּבָר (da.var) — word: thing.
: thing/matter
1) speech, word, speaking, thing
1a) speech
1b) saying, utterance
1c) word, words
1d) business, occupation, acts, matter, case, something, manner (by extension)
דָּבָר (da.var) — word: promised.
: promised/duty
1) speech, word, speaking, thing
1a) speech
1b) saying, utterance
1c) word, words
1d) business, occupation, acts, matter, case, something, manner (by extension)
דָּבָר (da.var) — word: deed.
: deed
N-mp — Noun common · masculine plural constructHNcmpc
ov:
(1) In Anglo-Saxon, had the meaning "from," "away from" (as the strengthened form "off" has still), and was not used for genitive or possessive relations, these being expressed by special case-forms. In the Norman period, however, "of" was taken to represent the French de (a use well developed by the time of Chaucer), and in the Elizabethan period both senses of "of" were in common use. But after about 1600 the later force of the word became predominant, and in the earlier sense (which is now practically obsolete) it was replaced by other prepositions. In consequence the King James Version (and in some cases the Revised Version (British and American)) contains many uses of "of" that are no longer familiar--most of them, to be sure, causing no difficulty, but there still being a few responsible for real obscurities.
OF, preposition ov. [Gr.]
1. From or out of; proceeding from, as the cause, source, means, author or agent bestowing.
I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered to you. 1 Corinthians 11:1.
For it was of the Lord to harden their hearts. Joshua 11:1.
It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed.
Lamentations 3:1.
The whole disposing thereof is of the Lord. Proverbs 16:1.
Go, inquire of the Lord for me. 2 Chronicles 34:2.
That holy thing that shall be born of thee. Luke 1:1.
Hence of is the sign of the genitive case, the case that denotes production; as the son of man, the son proceeding from man, produced from man. This is the primary sense, although we now say, produced by man. 'Part of these were slain; ' that is, a number separate, for part denotes a division; the sense then is, a number from or out of the whole were slain. So also, 'some of these were slain; ' that is…
The Hebrew word חָכָם (*chakam*) means 'wise' and encompasses various aspects of wisdom, including skillfulness in technical work, shrewdness, and ethical understanding. It can refer to a class of learned individuals, including those involved in astrology and magic. The word is derived from a related term, חָכַם (*chakam*), which also relates to intelligence and craftiness.
חָכָם adj. wise
skilful in technical work
wise in the administration of affairs
shrewd, crafty, cunning
pl. class of learned and shrewd men, incl. astrologers, magicians and the like
prudent
wise, ethically and religiously
base
H2450 חָכָם wise . skilful in technical work
. wise in the administration of affairs
. shrewd, crafty, cunning
. pl. class of learned and shrewd men, incl. astrologers, magicians and the like
. prudent
. wise, ethically and religiously
2450 chakam khaw-kawm'
from 2449; wise, (i.e. intelligent, skilful or
artful):--cunning (man), subtil, ((un-)), wise((hearted),
man).
see HEBREW for 02449
חָכָם (cha.kham) — wise.
1) wise, wise (man)
1a) skilful (in technical work)
1b) wise (in administration)
1c) shrewd, crafty, cunning, wily, subtle
1d) learned, shrewd (class of men)
1e) prudent
1f) wise (ethically and religiously)
Adj — AdjHAampa
חִידָה (chiydah) means 'riddle' or 'perplexing question.' It can refer to enigmatic sayings, dark utterances, or difficult questions, often used in a context of testing someone's wisdom, as seen in the story of the Queen of Sheba and Solomon. The word is derived from a root meaning 'to puzzle' and can also imply trickery or double-dealing.
חִידָה n.f. riddle, enigmatic, perplexing saying or question
riddle = dark, obscure utterance
riddle, enigma, to be guessed
perplexing questions by which queen of Sheba put Sol. to the test
skilled in double-dealing
base
H2420 חִידָה
2420 chiydah khee-daw'
from 2330; a puzzle, hence, a trick, conundrum, sententious
maxim:--dark saying (sentence, speech), hard question,
proverb, riddle.
see HEBREW for 02330
חִידָה (chi.dah) — riddle.
1) riddle, difficult question, parable, enigmatic saying or question, perplexing saying or question
1a) riddle (dark obscure utterance)
1b) riddle, enigma (to be guessed)
1c) perplexing questions (difficult)
1d) double dealing (with 'havin')
Aramaic equivalent: a.chi.dah (אֲחִידָה "riddle" H0280)
Conj | N-fp | Suff — Conjunction · noun common feminine plural construct · suffixHC/Ncfpc/Sp3mp