Proverbs 30:2
Surely I am more brutish than any man, and have not the understanding of a man.
Original Language Analysis
כִּ֤י
H3588
כִּ֤י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 8
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
בַ֣עַר
Surely I am more brutish
H1198
בַ֣עַר
Surely I am more brutish
Strong's:
H1198
Word #:
2 of 8
properly, foot (as consumed); i.e., (by exten.) of cattle brutishness; (concretely) stupid
מֵאִ֑ישׁ
than any man
H376
מֵאִ֑ישׁ
than any man
Strong's:
H376
Word #:
4 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)
וְלֹֽא
H3808
וְלֹֽא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
5 of 8
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature often began with assertions of divine wisdom's transcendence. Agur's confession of ignorance contrasts with pagan claims to human wisdom, emphasizing dependence on God's revelation.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you approach Scripture with humble recognition of your limited understanding?
- How does intellectual humility prepare you to receive God's revelation?
- In what areas do you need to confess 'I am brutish' and seek divine wisdom?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Agur confesses: 'I am more brutish than any man' and lack human understanding. The Hebrew 'baar' (brutish/stupid) and 'binah' (understanding) express extreme humility. This isn't false modesty but honest recognition of human limitation in knowing God. Reformed theology values epistemological humility—acknowledging we know only what God reveals. This Socratic wisdom (knowing we don't know) prepares us to receive divine revelation. Pride in human reason blinds; humility opens us to God's truth.