Proverbs 1:5 kjv

A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels:

Proverbs 1:5 nkjv

A wise man will hear and increase learning, And a man of understanding will attain wise counsel,

Proverbs 1:5 niv

let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance?

Proverbs 1:5 esv

Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance,

Proverbs 1:5 nlt

Let the wise listen to these proverbs and become even wiser.
Let those with understanding receive guidance

Proverbs 1 verses

Proverbs 1 5 Meaning

Proverbs 1:5 declares that even those already considered wise and understanding are exhorted to continuously expand their knowledge and sharpen their practical judgment. It signifies that wisdom is not a static possession but a dynamic, ongoing pursuit requiring constant receptivity to instruction and a deliberate effort to acquire skilled guidance for life's complexities. This verse challenges the notion of intellectual stagnation, urging a perpetual humility and thirst for greater insight and discernment.

Proverbs 1 5 Context

Proverbs 1:5 falls within the opening discourse of the book of Proverbs (1:1-7), which serves as an introduction setting forth the purpose and benefits of wisdom. This initial section establishes that the Proverbs are for gaining wisdom, instruction, understanding, and discretion (v. 2-4). While previous verses target "the simple" (young, inexperienced) to make them prudent, verse 5 specifically addresses "the wise" and "the one who understands." This highlights that the pursuit of wisdom is not solely for the novice but is a lifelong, progressive journey even for those who have already attained a degree of spiritual and practical discernment. The overall historical context is that of ancient Israel, where wisdom was valued as both practical skill for daily living and theological insight into God's moral order. The instruction often took the form of a father teaching his son.

Proverbs 1 5 Word analysis

• Let the wise (חָכָם - chakham): This Hebrew term refers to someone who already possesses a significant level of practical skill, moral insight, and discerning judgment. It implies someone who is experienced, competent, and has acted prudently. The emphasis here is that even one already skilled in wisdom must remain a student. This counters any self-sufficiency or arrogance that might arise from one's present wisdom.
• hear (שָׁמַע - shama'): More than merely perceiving sound, shama' implies an active, obedient listening—to pay attention, to understand, and to comply. It's about heeding instruction with an open heart and mind, leading to appropriate action. This is crucial for growth, as true wisdom involves submission to divine teaching.
• and increase in learning (וְיֹסֶף לֶקַח - wəyōsef leqach): Literally, "and add instruction" or "and receive more." Yosef (to add, increase) emphasizes progression. Leqach refers to received instruction, teaching, or moral discipline. The phrase implies that true wisdom leads to an insatiable appetite for more of God's teaching and a commitment to integrating new truths.
• and the one who understands (וְנָבוֹן - wənavon): From the root bin, meaning to discern, separate, distinguish. This term describes someone with insight, comprehension, and the ability to distinguish between right and wrong, truth and error. Such a person possesses more than surface knowledge; they grasp underlying principles. The parallelism with "the wise" indicates a profound level of comprehension.
• obtain guidance (יִקְנֶה תַּחְבֻּלוֹת - yiqneh takhbulot): Yiqneh means "acquire" or "possess." Takhbulot (plural) means skillful maneuvering, wise strategies, direction, or shrewdness, often in contexts of steering a ship or strategic planning in warfare. It refers to practical wisdom applied in complex situations, implying prudence and effective governance. This phrase stresses that the discerning person should seek not just more knowledge, but actionable strategies for navigating life successfully, aligning with God's will. The polemic here is against relying solely on innate intelligence; divine "guidance" (strategies) must be actively obtained, not presumed. This wisdom is not just for knowing, but for doing and leading.

Proverbs 1 5 Bonus section

The progressive nature of wisdom acquisition is a foundational theme throughout Proverbs. While some verses aim to transform the naive, Proverbs 1:5 shifts focus to affirm that wisdom is never complete; it deepens with consistent effort and a humble spirit. The pairing of "the wise" and "the one who understands" in the parallel clauses suggests a continuous upward spiral of knowledge and discernment. One "hears" to "increase in learning," and the other "understands" to "obtain guidance." This implies that intellectual assent (understanding) must culminate in practical shrewdness and wise counsel (takhbulot). This isn't worldly cunning, but divine sagacity that knows how to apply truth effectively, a skill vital for effective leadership and responsible living in a fallen world. This lifelong pursuit is rooted in the "fear of the Lord" (Prov 1:7), recognizing God as the ultimate source of all truth and skill.

Proverbs 1 5 Commentary

Proverbs 1:5 serves as a powerful call to lifelong intellectual and spiritual humility. It dismantles the pride that can accompany wisdom by stating clearly that even the wisest must remain teachable. The verse presents wisdom not as a destination but as an ongoing journey of learning and adaptation. "Hearing" is an active posture, signifying a willingness to receive divine and human instruction, acknowledging that there is always more to comprehend and apply. This continuous receptivity allows one to "increase in learning," deepening their understanding of God's ways and the world He created. Furthermore, for the one who "understands," the pursuit must extend to acquiring "guidance"—practical, skillful strategies for navigating the complexities of life. This implies developing sharp discernment and applying God-given insights to real-world challenges, whether personal, familial, or societal. It emphasizes that true wisdom is always pragmatic and seeks to inform wise living, leading to a life steered by divine direction rather than impulsive decisions. In essence, the verse highlights that growth is the mark of true wisdom.

• Practical Examples:
  • A seasoned pastor continuing to study theology and spiritual disciplines.
  • An experienced parent actively seeking counsel or reading books on new parenting challenges.
  • A church leader or elder, wise in counsel, still dedicating time to prayer and listening to God's word for fresh direction.
  • Any believer, regardless of their spiritual maturity, committing to daily Bible reading and quiet reflection, understanding there's always more to learn about God and His will.