Proverbs 2:9
Then shalt thou understand righteousness, and judgment, and equity; yea, every good path.
Original Language Analysis
אָ֗ז
H227
תָּ֭בִין
Then shalt thou understand
H995
תָּ֭בִין
Then shalt thou understand
Strong's:
H995
Word #:
2 of 8
to separate mentally (or distinguish), i.e., (generally) understand
צֶ֣דֶק
righteousness
H6664
צֶ֣דֶק
righteousness
Strong's:
H6664
Word #:
3 of 8
the right (natural, moral or legal); also (abstractly) equity or (figuratively) prosperity
וּמִשְׁפָּ֑ט
and judgment
H4941
וּמִשְׁפָּ֑ט
and judgment
Strong's:
H4941
Word #:
4 of 8
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind
וּ֝מֵישָׁרִ֗ים
and equity
H4339
וּ֝מֵישָׁרִ֗ים
and equity
Strong's:
H4339
Word #:
5 of 8
evenness, i.e., (figuratively) prosperity or concord; also straightness, i.e., (figuratively) rectitude (only in plural with singular sense; often adv
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
6 of 8
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
Cross References
Jeremiah 6:16Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein.Isaiah 48:17Thus saith the LORD, thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; I am the LORD thy God which teacheth thee to profit, which leadeth thee by the way that thou shouldest go.
Historical Context
Ancient wisdom tradition distinguished between knowing facts and understanding principles. True wisdom wasn't academic but practical—enabling right living. The triad of righteousness, judgment, and equity summarizes comprehensive ethical living, reflecting God's character. This understanding wasn't natural human capacity but divinely granted through engagement with God's revealed wisdom in Scripture and creation.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the sequence—receiving wisdom, then understanding—challenge modern assumptions that intellectual knowledge alone suffices?
- What does understanding 'every good path' teach us about sanctification producing comprehensive moral discernment, not merely selective obedience?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The result of divine provision: 'Then shalt thou understand righteousness, and judgment, and equity; yea, every good path.' The 'then' indicates consequence—after receiving and heeding wisdom, understanding follows. This isn't mere intellectual knowledge but experiential comprehension of righteousness (right standing), judgment (justice), and equity (fairness). The comprehensive 'every good path' shows complete moral discernment. This demonstrates illumination: the Holy Spirit enables believers to understand and walk in truth. Saving faith produces moral comprehension.