Proverbs 1:6 kjv

To understand a proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings.

Proverbs 1:6 nkjv

To understand a proverb and an enigma, The words of the wise and their riddles.

Proverbs 1:6 niv

for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise.

Proverbs 1:6 esv

to understand a proverb and a saying, the words of the wise and their riddles.

Proverbs 1:6 nlt

by exploring the meaning in these proverbs and parables,
the words of the wise and their riddles.

Proverbs 1 verses

Proverbs 1 6 Meaning

Proverbs 1:6 articulates a key purpose for engaging with the book of Proverbs: to cultivate the ability to deeply comprehend various forms of wisdom, including straightforward proverbs, intricate parables, and profound, sometimes obscure, sayings and riddles presented by the wise. It signifies a call to discernment, enabling the reader to grasp not just the surface meaning but also the deeper, often hidden, truths embedded within God's wisdom communicated through these diverse literary expressions.

Proverbs 1 6 Context

Proverbs 1:6 serves as the concluding statement of the introductory section of the book (Proverbs 1:1-7), outlining the book's overarching purpose. After stating the general goal of providing "wisdom and instruction" (v. 2) and indicating for whom this wisdom is intended (the simple, the young, the wise) and how it benefits them (v. 4-5), verse 6 specifically details the diverse forms of literary wisdom the reader is expected to understand. It frames Proverbs not merely as a collection of simple aphorisms but as a rich tapestry of profound insights presented through various styles, demanding deep engagement and spiritual discernment to unlock their full meaning. Historically, this aligns with the ancient Near Eastern tradition of wisdom literature, where "wise sayings," "dark speeches," and "riddles" were common expressions used to convey profound moral and theological truths.

Proverbs 1 6 Word analysis

• to understand (לְהָבִין, lehavin): This is a infinitive construct of the root בִּין (bin), meaning "to discern," "to perceive," "to gain insight." It goes beyond mere intellectual grasp or rote memorization; it implies a deep comprehension, an ability to distinguish and apply the truth. It suggests actively processing information to derive meaning and implications, often connected with spiritual insight (cf. Ps 119:104; Dan 1:17).

• a proverb (מָשָׁל, mashal): A very broad Hebrew term, encompassing a wide range of pithy sayings, parables, similes, allegories, or even prophetic oracles and taunt-songs (e.g., Isa 14:4). Its root likely means "to be like" or "to rule," implying something that illustrates a general truth, compares one thing to another, or authoritatively sets a standard. In Proverbs, it refers primarily to short, illustrative maxims conveying moral or spiritual truth.

• and a saying (וּמְלִיצָה, u-melitsah): This word, from the root לוּץ (lutz), suggests "interpretive saying," "figurative speech," "dark saying," or "taunt." Some scholars link it to ambiguity or indirect speech, indicating that these sayings are not always immediately obvious and may require an interpreter or careful thought. It implies a hidden meaning that needs to be brought to light. It is less common than mashal and points to more challenging or nuanced expressions of wisdom.

• the words of the wise (דִּבְרֵי חֲכָמִים, divrei chakhamim): Refers to the collective body of instruction, counsel, and moral teachings put forth by sages or experienced instructors. It implies authoritative wisdom, lessons gained from experience and insight. These "words" are foundational and form the bulk of wisdom tradition, like sections found later in Proverbs (e.g., Prov 22:17–24:34).

• and their riddles (וְחִידֹתָם, vechîdotham): From the root חִידָה (chîdah), meaning "riddle," "enigma," "dark saying," "puzzle," or "problem." This denotes something difficult to understand or solve, intended to test the intellect and discernment. Biblical examples include Samson's riddle (Judg 14:12-18) or the Queen of Sheba's hard questions to Solomon (1 Kgs 10:1). It highlights the profound depth and complexity sometimes hidden within divine wisdom, requiring deep contemplation and insight.

• Words-group by words-group analysis:

  • "to understand a proverb and a saying": This pairing emphasizes the need to grasp not only common wisdom (proverbs) but also those teachings that are more layered, obscure, or allegorical (sayings/interpretive parables). It highlights the varied nature of the wisdom communicated.
  • "the words of the wise and their riddles": This second pair focuses on the authoritative teachings of sages and, critically, their most challenging and perplexing expressions (riddles). It suggests that true wisdom encompasses both clear instruction and deep, complex truths that demand intellectual and spiritual effort to unlock.
  • Overall progression: The verse progresses from more straightforward forms of wisdom (proverb) to increasingly complex and challenging ones (saying, words of the wise, riddles). This implies that a comprehensive understanding of God's wisdom requires discernment at multiple levels, moving beyond the obvious to plumb the profound.

Proverbs 1 6 Bonus section

The inclusion of "riddles" in this foundational verse points to the fact that biblical truth, including the wisdom in Proverbs, isn't always laid bare on the surface. God often communicates in ways that require active seeking, contemplation, and even divine illumination. This challenges superficial engagement with Scripture and cultivates humility, knowing that some truths demand greater effort or revelation. It prepares the reader for deeper spiritual truths and anticipates the use of parables by Jesus in the New Testament to reveal and conceal truth based on spiritual receptivity. This verse implicitly suggests that understanding the book itself will be a training ground for discerning the more complex spiritual truths about God and His kingdom.

Proverbs 1 6 Commentary

Proverbs 1:6 serves as an expository meta-statement, detailing the scope of what the reader is intended to gain from the Book of Proverbs itself. It broadens the earlier general aims of "wisdom and instruction" (v. 2) by specifying the diverse literary forms through which this wisdom is conveyed. The deliberate listing of "proverb," "saying," "words of the wise," and "riddles" implies a spectrum of cognitive challenges within the text. It prepares the reader for content ranging from simple, memorable maxims to complex allegories and thought-provoking enigmas, all designed to sharpen spiritual discernment (binah). This understanding is not passive absorption but an active intellectual and spiritual pursuit. It underscores that God's truth, while accessible, often demands deep meditation and insightful interpretation to penetrate its profound depths, fostering maturity in wisdom (e.g., discerning Christ in parables, or understanding prophecies). This process ensures that wisdom is not merely acquired but thoroughly understood, enabling its proper application in life.