Proverbs 20:5
Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out.
Original Language Analysis
בְלֶב
in the heart
H3820
בְלֶב
in the heart
Strong's:
H3820
Word #:
4 of 8
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
וְאִ֖ישׁ
but a man
H376
וְאִ֖ישׁ
but a man
Strong's:
H376
Word #:
5 of 8
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
וְאִ֖ישׁ
but a man
H376
וְאִ֖ישׁ
but a man
Strong's:
H376
Word #:
6 of 8
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
Cross References
Proverbs 18:4The words of a man's mouth are as deep waters, and the wellspring of wisdom as a flowing brook.1 Corinthians 2:11For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.Psalms 64:6They search out iniquities; they accomplish a diligent search: both the inward thought of every one of them, and the heart, is deep.
Historical Context
Drawing water from deep wells was strenuous labor requiring specialized equipment. This metaphor emphasized that accessing deep wisdom required similar effort, patience, and skill.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you engage in deep reflection and meditation to access wisdom, or do you settle for superficial thinking?
- How can you develop the skill of asking questions that draw out hidden counsel?
- What practices help you move beyond surface-level understanding to deeper insight?
Analysis & Commentary
Counsel in the heart is like 'deep water,' but 'a man of understanding' draws it out. The Hebrew 'mayim amaq' (deep waters) suggests hidden wisdom requiring effort to access. The word 'dalah' (draw out) refers to drawing water from a well—difficult but rewarding work. This teaches that insight often lies beneath surface thoughts, requiring reflection and questioning. Reformed theology values thoughtful meditation on Scripture and doctrine. A person of understanding asks probing questions and digs beneath superficial answers to reach truth.