Proverbs 3:14
For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold.
Original Language Analysis
כִּ֤י
H3588
כִּ֤י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 7
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
ט֣וֹב
of it is better
H2896
ט֣וֹב
of it is better
Strong's:
H2896
Word #:
2 of 7
good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good
מִסְּחַר
than the merchandise
H5505
מִסְּחַר
than the merchandise
Strong's:
H5505
Word #:
4 of 7
an emporium; abstractly, profit (from trade)
כָּ֑סֶף
of silver
H3701
כָּ֑סֶף
of silver
Strong's:
H3701
Word #:
5 of 7
silver (from its pale color); by implication, money
Cross References
Proverbs 16:16How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!Proverbs 8:19My fruit is better than gold, yea, than fine gold; and my revenue than choice silver.Matthew 16:26For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?Psalms 119:111Thy testimonies have I taken as an heritage for ever: for they are the rejoicing of my heart.Revelation 3:18I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.Psalms 119:72The law of thy mouth is better unto me than thousands of gold and silver.Psalms 119:162I rejoice at thy word, as one that findeth great spoil.Proverbs 2:4If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures;
Historical Context
Written during Solomon's era of unprecedented wealth accumulation through trade. Yet the king who possessed vast treasures declared wisdom more valuable, challenging materialistic values.
Questions for Reflection
- How do your actual investment priorities (time, money, energy) reflect wisdom's supreme value?
- What would change in your life if you genuinely valued wisdom above material gain?
Analysis & Commentary
Wisdom's value exceeds merchandise of silver and fine gold. The commercial metaphor establishes wisdom as superior investment to precious metals. This comparative valuation demands prioritizing spiritual over material wealth. The verse doesn't condemn riches but subordinates them to wisdom. Reformed theology affirms appropriate wealth pursuit while warning against making mammon the supreme good. True prosperity includes wisdom enriching the soul.