Proverbs 1:29
For that they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the LORD:
Original Language Analysis
תַּ֭חַת
H8478
תַּ֭חַת
Strong's:
H8478
Word #:
1 of 8
the bottom (as depressed); only adverbially, below (often with prepositional prefix underneath), in lieu of, etc
כִּי
H3588
כִּי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
2 of 8
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
וְיִרְאַ֥ת
the fear
H3374
וְיִרְאַ֥ת
the fear
Strong's:
H3374
Word #:
5 of 8
fear (also used as infinitive); morally, reverence
יְ֝הוָֹ֗ה
of the LORD
H3068
יְ֝הוָֹ֗ה
of the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
6 of 8
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
Cross References
Proverbs 1:22How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge?Hebrews 11:25Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;Proverbs 6:23For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life:Isaiah 27:11When the boughs thereof are withered, they shall be broken off: the women come, and set them on fire: for it is a people of no understanding: therefore he that made them will not have mercy on them, and he that formed them will shew them no favour.
Historical Context
Part of wisdom's indictment (vv.24-33) explaining the grounds for judgment. The emphasis on choice echoes Moses' call to choose life or death (Deut 30:19), making rejection of wisdom covenant violation deserving judgment.
Questions for Reflection
- In what specific ways have you refused to choose the fear of the LORD in your decisions?
- How does recognizing your choices as volitional increase your accountability for their consequences?
Analysis & Commentary
The rejected generation hated knowledge and refused to choose fear of YHWH. The language of 'choosing' emphasizes volitional rebellion - they could have chosen rightly but refused. This refutes deterministic fatalism while affirming human moral agency within divine sovereignty. Hating knowledge and rejecting God's fear aren't passive ignorance but active rebellion. Their destruction is just because they deliberately chose folly over wisdom, death over life.