Proverbs 30:3
I neither learned wisdom, nor have the knowledge of the holy.
Original Language Analysis
וְלֹֽא
H3808
וְלֹֽא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
1 of 6
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
לָמַ֥דְתִּי
I neither learned
H3925
לָמַ֥דְתִּי
I neither learned
Strong's:
H3925
Word #:
2 of 6
properly, to goad, i.e., (by implication) to teach (the rod being an middle eastern incentive)
Historical Context
Israel's faith insisted that true knowledge of God came through covenant revelation, not human speculation. Agur's confession reflects this theology—we know God only as He makes Himself known.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you balance confidence in biblical revelation with humility about your understanding?
- What is the difference between knowing about God and truly knowing Him?
- How does this verse challenge intellectual pride in theological knowledge?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Agur continues: 'I neither learned wisdom, nor have the knowledge of the holy.' The Hebrew 'lamad chokmah' (learned wisdom) and 'daat qodesh' (knowledge of the holy/Holy One) are beyond human attainment apart from revelation. This emphasizes God's transcendence and human dependence on His self-disclosure. Reformed theology distinguishes knowledge of God from knowledge about God—the former requires revelation and regeneration. Natural theology has limits; saving knowledge comes only through Christ and Scripture.