Proverbs 8:5
O ye simple, understand wisdom: and, ye fools, be ye of an understanding heart.
Original Language Analysis
הָבִ֥ינוּ
be ye of an understanding
H995
הָבִ֥ינוּ
be ye of an understanding
Strong's:
H995
Word #:
1 of 6
to separate mentally (or distinguish), i.e., (generally) understand
וּ֝כְסִילִ֗ים
and ye fools
H3684
וּ֝כְסִילִ֗ים
and ye fools
Strong's:
H3684
Word #:
4 of 6
properly, fat, i.e., (figuratively) stupid or silly
Cross References
Proverbs 1:22How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge?Acts 26:18To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.Psalms 19:7The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.Proverbs 1:4To give subtilty to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion.
Historical Context
The simple (pethi) appears frequently in Proverbs as a warning category—those who haven't yet chosen wisdom or folly definitively. In Israel's wisdom tradition, youth were considered simple, requiring instruction to mature.
Questions for Reflection
- In what areas of life are you still 'simple,' lacking the prudence that comes from experience and instruction?
- How does God's gracious call to the simple encourage you in areas where you feel spiritually immature?
- What steps can you take to move from naivety to biblically-grounded discernment?
Analysis & Commentary
Wisdom calls the 'simple' to understand prudence and 'fools' to gain heart understanding. The Hebrew 'pethi' (simple/naive) are those easily led astray—not hardened rebels but the gullible and unformed. The word 'ormah' (prudence) means shrewdness or craftiness in a positive sense—spiritual street smarts. Reformed theology affirms human depravity but also God's gracious initiative in offering wisdom to those who lack it. This verse demonstrates God's patience with the immature, calling them to growth rather than condemning them in their naivety.