Proverbs 15:7
The lips of the wise disperse knowledge: but the heart of the foolish doeth not so.
Original Language Analysis
שִׂפְתֵ֣י
The lips
H8193
שִׂפְתֵ֣י
The lips
Strong's:
H8193
Word #:
1 of 8
the lip (as a natural boundary); by implication, language; by analogy, a margin (of a vessel, water, cloth, etc.)
וְלֵ֖ב
but the heart
H3820
וְלֵ֖ב
but the heart
Strong's:
H3820
Word #:
5 of 8
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
כְּסִילִ֣ים
of the foolish
H3684
כְּסִילִ֣ים
of the foolish
Strong's:
H3684
Word #:
6 of 8
properly, fat, i.e., (figuratively) stupid or silly
Historical Context
In ancient Israel, wisdom was passed down orally from elders to youth. Those who possessed knowledge had a sacred responsibility to teach the next generation (Deuteronomy 6:6-7).
Questions for Reflection
- Are you generous in sharing the biblical knowledge and wisdom you've gained?
- What opportunities do you have to 'disperse' knowledge to those who lack it?
- How does viewing knowledge as a gift to be shared rather than hoarded change your approach to learning?
Analysis & Commentary
The 'lips of the wise disperse knowledge,' but 'the heart of the foolish doeth not so.' Hebrew 'zarah' (disperse/scatter) suggests generosity and wide distribution, like a farmer sowing seed. The wise don't hoard knowledge but share it liberally. Meanwhile, fools lack the knowledge to disperse and the generosity to share what they have. Reformed theology values the teaching office and the responsibility of those who know truth to instruct others. Knowledge is not for personal elevation but for building up the body of Christ and blessing others.