Proverbs 20:15
There is gold, and a multitude of rubies: but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.
Original Language Analysis
יֵ֣שׁ
There is
H3426
יֵ֣שׁ
There is
Strong's:
H3426
Word #:
1 of 8
there is or are (or any other form of the verb to be, as may suit the connection)
זָ֭הָב
gold
H2091
זָ֭הָב
gold
Strong's:
H2091
Word #:
2 of 8
gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
וּכְלִ֥י
jewel
H3627
וּכְלִ֥י
jewel
Strong's:
H3627
Word #:
5 of 8
something prepared, i.e., any apparatus (as an implement, utensil, dress, vessel or weapon)
יְ֝קָ֗ר
are a precious
H3366
יְ֝קָ֗ר
are a precious
Strong's:
H3366
Word #:
6 of 8
value, i.e., (concretely) wealth; abstractly, costliness, dignity
Cross References
Proverbs 25:12As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover upon an obedient ear.Proverbs 8:11For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it.Proverbs 16:24Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.Proverbs 15:7The lips of the wise disperse knowledge: but the heart of the foolish doeth not so.Proverbs 16:16How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!
Historical Context
Ancient cultures highly prized gold and precious stones, making them natural symbols of great value. Solomon's comparison would have shocked hearers by elevating wisdom above what they considered most precious.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you treasure wise counsel and biblical teaching above material possessions?
- How are you using your words—to pursue wisdom or waste breath on folly?
Analysis & Commentary
This verse establishes a hierarchy of value: gold and rubies represent material wealth, but 'lips of knowledge' surpass both as 'precious jewels.' Wisdom spoken and shared has eternal value far exceeding earthly treasures. Knowledge here means not mere information but godly wisdom applied to life. The lips that speak truth, counsel wisely, and impart understanding are more valuable than any material possession. This reflects God's value system where spiritual realities trump physical ones. The gospel itself is the supreme 'knowledge'—understanding Christ and His salvation. Those who proclaim and teach biblical truth possess wealth that neither rusts nor fades.