Proverbs 14:6
A scorner seeketh wisdom, and findeth it not: but knowledge is easy unto him that understandeth.
Original Language Analysis
בִּקֶּשׁ
seeketh
H1245
בִּקֶּשׁ
seeketh
Strong's:
H1245
Word #:
1 of 7
to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after
לֵ֣ץ
A scorner
H3887
לֵ֣ץ
A scorner
Strong's:
H3887
Word #:
2 of 7
properly, to make mouths at, i.e., to scoff; hence (from the effort to pronounce a foreign language) to interpret, or (generally) intercede
וָאָ֑יִן
H369
Cross References
James 1:5If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.Proverbs 8:9They are all plain to him that understandeth, and right to them that find knowledge.1 Corinthians 8:2And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know.
Historical Context
The scorner appears throughout Proverbs as one who rejects correction and mocks instruction. In ancient Israel's wisdom tradition, this attitude excluded one from the community of learners gathered at wisdom's feet.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you approach Scripture and spiritual truth with humility or with a critical, mocking spirit?
- What is the relationship between intellectual understanding and spiritual receptivity?
- How can you cultivate a heart that is 'understanding' rather than scornful?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The scorner 'seeketh wisdom, and findeth it not'—not because wisdom is hidden, but because the scorner's attitude disqualifies him. The Hebrew 'lets' (scorner/mocker) refers to one who treats sacred things with contempt. Meanwhile, 'knowledge is easy unto him that understandeth.' The problem isn't intellectual capacity but moral disposition. Reformed theology affirms that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10). Without humility before God, intellectual pursuit is futile. The natural man cannot understand spiritual things (1 Corinthians 2:14).