Proverbs Chapter 2 · Verse 6
For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.
Original Language Analysis
כִּֽי
H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 7
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
יְ֭הוָה
For the LORD
H3068
יְ֭הוָה
For the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
2 of 7
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
יִתֵּ֣ן
giveth
H5414
יִתֵּ֣ן
giveth
Strong's:
H5414
Word #:
3 of 7
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
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.Psalms 119:98Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me.Job 32:8But there is a spirit in man: and the inspiration of the Almighty giveth them understanding.Isaiah 54:13And all thy children shall be taught of the LORD; and great shall be the peace of thy children.Luke 21:15For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist.John 6:45It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me.1 Kings 3:12Behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee.James 1:17Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.Isaiah 8:20To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.Psalms 119:104Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way.
Historical Context
This verse reflects the ancient Near Eastern understanding that true wisdom originates from the divine realm.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you balance diligent pursuit of wisdom with dependence on God to grant it?
- In what ways have you experienced God giving you wisdom when you sought it from Him?
Analysis & Commentary
This verse reveals the divine source of wisdom. After commanding pursuit of wisdom (vv.1-5), Solomon declares that 'the LORD giveth wisdom' (יְהוָה יִתֵּן חָכְמָה/Yahweh yiten chokhmah). Human effort alone cannot produce wisdom—it is God's gift. 'Out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding' emphasizes revelation: wisdom flows from God's self-disclosure in His word. This anticipates the New Testament's fuller revelation that Christ is the wisdom of God (1 Corinthians 1:24, 30) and that God's word makes us wise unto salvation (2 Timothy 3:15). The verse balances human responsibility (seek wisdom diligently) with divine sovereignty (God gives wisdom). James 1:5 echoes this: 'If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally.'