Proverbs 22:20
Have not I written to thee excellent things in counsels and knowledge,
Original Language Analysis
הֲלֹ֤א
H3808
הֲלֹ֤א
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
1 of 6
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
כָתַ֣בְתִּי
Have not I written
H3789
כָתַ֣בְתִּי
Have not I written
Strong's:
H3789
Word #:
2 of 6
to grave, by implication, to write (describe, inscribe, prescribe, subscribe)
Historical Context
Storing provisions (oil, grain, etc.) was essential in agrarian societies facing crop failures and seasonal variations. Wise households maintained reserves; foolish ones lived hand-to-mouth.
Questions for Reflection
- Are you managing resources wisely with provision for the future?
- What spending patterns reveal foolishness that needs correction?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The wise person's dwelling contains stored treasure and oil—abundance from diligent work and prudent management. The fool squanders everything through improvidence and indulgence. Wisdom produces prosperity through hard work, planning, and frugality; folly produces poverty through waste. This isn't promising wealth to all wise people but affirming general principles: disciplined stewardship usually creates abundance; foolishness leads to want. The wise save for future needs; fools consume everything immediately. This economic wisdom reflects spiritual principles: stewarding God's gifts faithfully honors Him; wastefulness despises His provision. Believers should manage resources as faithful stewards accountable to the Master.