Proverbs 3:5
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
Word-by-Word Analysis
Cross References
Related verses that illuminate this passage (hover to preview):
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1
Jeremiah 17:5
Jeremiah 17:5
Thus saith the LORD; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the LORD.— Cursed is the man that trusteth in man
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2
Psalms 37:5
Psalms 37:5
Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.— Commit thy way unto the LORD
Analysis
Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. This foundational proverb establishes the proper relationship between human reason and divine revelation. "Trust" (batach, בָּטַח) means to feel secure, confident, or safe—not mere intellectual assent but complete reliance. The phrase "with all thine heart" (bekhol libbekha, בְּכָל־לִבֶּךָ) demands total commitment, engaging the entire personality rather than partial allegiance.
"The Lord" uses the covenant name Yahweh (יהוה), emphasizing relationship with the God who has revealed Himself and proven faithful to His promises. This trust is not blind faith but confidence based on God's character and past faithfulness.
"Lean not unto thine own understanding" (al tishaen, אַל־תִּשָּׁעֵן) literally means "do not support yourself upon" human wisdom. This doesn't eliminate human reason but subordinates it to divine revelation. The contrast between "all your heart" and "your own understanding" emphasizes comprehensive trust versus limited human perspective.
Historical Context
Proverbs 3 forms part of Solomon's wisdom literature, written during Israel's golden age when wisdom and learning flourished. The historical Solomon gathered wisdom from various sources while maintaining that true wisdom begins with fear of the Lord (Proverbs 1:7).
Ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature typically emphasized human observation and practical experience as the source of wisdom. While Proverbs incorporates practical wisdom, it uniquely subordinates human understanding to divine revelation, setting Hebrew wisdom apart from contemporary cultures.
The proverb addresses the perpetual human tendency to rely on limited understanding rather than trusting divine guidance. This would have been particularly relevant for a young king like Solomon, who needed wisdom beyond human capability to govern God's people effectively.
Questions for Reflection
- How do believers balance using God-given rational abilities while trusting God rather than human understanding?
- What are the practical implications of trusting God 'with all your heart' in decision-making and life planning?
- How does this proverb address the contemporary tension between secular education and biblical faith?
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