Proverbs 2:7
He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous: he is a buckler to them that walk uprightly.
Original Language Analysis
וִצְפֹּ֣ן
He layeth up
H6845
וִצְפֹּ֣ן
He layeth up
Strong's:
H6845
Word #:
1 of 6
to hide (by covering over); by implication, to hoard or reserve; figuratively to deny; specifically (favorably) to protect, (unfavorably) to lurk
תּוּשִׁיָּ֑ה
sound wisdom
H8454
תּוּשִׁיָּ֑ה
sound wisdom
Strong's:
H8454
Word #:
3 of 6
support or (by implication) ability, i.e., (direct) help, (in purpose) an undertaking, (intellectual) understanding
מָ֝גֵ֗ן
he is a buckler
H4043
מָ֝גֵ֗ן
he is a buckler
Strong's:
H4043
Word #:
4 of 6
a shield (i.e., the small one or buckler); figuratively, a protector; also the scaly hide of the crocodile
Cross References
Psalms 84:11For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.Proverbs 30:5Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.1 Corinthians 1:19For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.Proverbs 14:8The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way: but the folly of fools is deceit.1 Corinthians 1:30But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:Colossians 2:3In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.Psalms 144:2My goodness, and my fortress; my high tower, and my deliverer; my shield, and he in whom I trust; who subdueth my people under me.Proverbs 28:18Whoso walketh uprightly shall be saved: but he that is perverse in his ways shall fall at once.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern kings provided for loyal subjects, storing treasures for distribution to faithful servants. God functions as divine King, provisioning His covenant people. The buckler was a small round shield used in close combat, representing personal divine protection. Proverbs consistently contrasts the righteous (covenant-keepers) with the wicked (covenant-breakers), showing different destinies based on relationship with God.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's laying up wisdom demonstrate His active provision for His people's needs before they arise?
- What does the buckler imagery teach us about God's personal, protective care for those walking in obedience?
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Analysis & Commentary
God's provision for the righteous: 'He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous: he is a buckler to them that walk uprightly.' God actively stores ('layeth up') wisdom for His people like treasure reserved for heirs. 'Sound wisdom' (Hebrew: tushiyyah, abiding success, practical wisdom) represents effective knowledge for life. The buckler (shield) imagery shows God's protective function—He guards those walking uprightly. This demonstrates covenant faithfulness: God equips and protects His people. Justification (declared righteous) leads to sanctification (walking uprightly) with divine provision.