Proverbs 1:5

KJV

A wise [man] will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels:

KJV (with Strong's)

A wise {H2450} man will hear {H8085}, and will increase {H3254} learning {H3948}; and a man of understanding {H995} shall attain {H7069} unto wise counsels {H8458}:

Complete Jewish Bible

Someone who is already wise will hear and learn still more; someone who already understands will gain the ability to counsel well;

Berean Standard Bible

let the wise listen and gain instruction, and the discerning acquire wise counsel

American Standard Version

That the wise man may hear, and increase in learning; And that the man of understanding may attain unto sound counsels:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 1:5 serves as a pivotal statement at the outset of the book, articulating the dynamic and lifelong nature of wisdom. It posits that even individuals already possessing wisdom and discernment are called to an ongoing, active pursuit of knowledge and understanding. This continuous engagement with truth enables them to deepen their spiritual insight, refine their discernment, and effectively apply divine counsel, not only for personal growth but also for the benefit and guidance of others. The verse thus establishes an enduring call to humility, teachability, and the progressive acquisition of profound spiritual and practical insight.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 1:5 is strategically positioned within the introductory section of the book, immediately following the comprehensive purpose statement found in [Proverbs 1:1-4](/proverbs/1-1-4 "Proverbs 1:1-4 - The Purpose of Proverbs"). While the preceding verses primarily address the "simple" and the "young," aiming to impart foundational knowledge and discretion, verse 5 significantly broadens the intended audience. By including the "wise" and "understanding," the text signals that the wisdom contained within Proverbs is not merely for the uninitiated but offers a perpetual source of deeper insight for those already on the path of wisdom. This placement underscores the progressive and cumulative nature of wisdom, emphasizing that the journey of learning and spiritual growth is never fully complete, but rather a continuous process of refinement and expansion.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, wisdom was a highly revered attribute, fundamental to both individual flourishing and communal well-being. It was understood not merely as intellectual acumen but as a practical skill for living righteously and successfully in covenant with God. This wisdom was typically transmitted through familial instruction, particularly from father to son, and through the teachings of community elders and sages. The "wise man" or "man of understanding" held a respected position, often serving as a counselor or leader within the community. Crucially, this cultural emphasis on wisdom was deeply rooted in a theological conviction: true wisdom originated from God and was inextricably linked to the "fear of the Lord," as profoundly articulated in [Proverbs 9:10](/proverbs/9-10 "Proverbs 9:10 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom"). Therefore, the pursuit of wisdom was not a secular endeavor but a spiritual discipline, aiming to align one's life with divine principles and contribute positively to the collective.

* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 1:5 masterfully contributes to several core themes woven throughout the book. Firstly, it champions the theme of **Continuous Learning and Growth**, asserting that wisdom is an dynamic process rather than a static achievement. The call for the wise to "increase learning" highlights a lifelong commitment to acquiring deeper knowledge and insight, rejecting complacency. Secondly, the verse underscores the vital importance of **Humility and Receptivity**. The phrase "A wise man will hear" implicitly demands an open, teachable spirit, one that is willing to receive instruction, even when already knowledgeable. This receptive posture is foundational to all genuine wisdom and spiritual progress. Thirdly, the verse points to the theme of **Practical Application and Counsel**. As a "man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels," it signifies that accumulated wisdom is not solely for personal edification but equips individuals to offer sound, strategic guidance to others. This reflects the profoundly practical and relational dimension of biblical wisdom, as further illuminated in passages like [Proverbs 11:14](/proverbs/11-14 "Proverbs 11:14 - Wisdom in Counsel"), where the abundance of counselors is linked to safety and success.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Wise (Hebrew, _châkâm_):** From H2450, this term extends beyond mere intellectual capacity, encompassing practical skill, intelligence, and the ability to live prudently and skillfully in accordance with God's established order. A *châkâm* is one who possesses discernment, exercises sound judgment, and aligns their actions with divine truth, demonstrating practical sagacity in all aspects of life.
* **Hear (Hebrew, _shâmaʻ_):** From H8085, this word signifies much more than simply auditory perception. It denotes attentive listening, deep comprehension, and, most importantly, obedient response. To "hear" in this context implies a receptive heart and mind, a willingness to internalize instruction, and a readiness to act upon it. It powerfully conveys the necessity of a teachable spirit and submission to truth.
* **Wise counsels (Hebrew, _tachbulâh_):** From H8458, this plural noun refers to skillful guidance, strategic plans, or prudent management, often drawing a metaphor from the art of steering a ship. It suggests a profound understanding that enables one to navigate complex situations, make discerning decisions, and offer strategic advice that leads to successful, righteous, and beneficial outcomes for oneself and others.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"A wise [man] will hear":** This opening clause immediately establishes the essential characteristic of true wisdom: a posture of humble receptivity. The "wise man" is not one who presumes to know everything, but rather one who actively listens, pays close attention, and remains open to receiving further instruction. This "hearing" is not passive but implies an active willingness to learn, understand, and ultimately obey.
* **"and will increase learning":** This phrase vividly illustrates the progressive and cumulative nature of wisdom. The act of attentively hearing, deeply understanding, and faithfully obeying divine instruction leads to a continuous accumulation of knowledge, insight, and practical wisdom. Wisdom is portrayed as a dynamic, ongoing journey of growth, where each new piece of received truth adds to one's overall comprehension and capacity for discernment.
* **"and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels":** This second part of the verse presents a parallel progression, highlighting the practical fruit of deep understanding. A "man of understanding" (one who possesses keen discernment and insight) will "attain" or acquire the ability to formulate, offer, and effectively apply "wise counsels." This signifies that profound understanding is not merely for personal enrichment but empowers one to provide sound, strategic guidance and to navigate life's complexities with skill and prudence, extending the benefit of wisdom beyond oneself to the community.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 1:5 is a masterful example of **Synthetic Parallelism**, a common feature in biblical poetry where the second line or clause expands upon, completes, or develops the thought introduced in the first, rather than merely restating it. The initial clause, "A wise man will hear, and will increase learning," sets forth the principle of continuous personal growth in wisdom. The subsequent clause, "and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels," then builds upon this, demonstrating the practical outcome and broader application of such growth—the capacity to offer discerning and strategic guidance to others. This progression from internal acquisition of wisdom to its outward expression in counsel is a hallmark of the book of Proverbs. Additionally, the verse employs **Synonymity** by linking "wise man" with "man of understanding," which, while carrying subtle nuances, are used in parallel to emphasize the comprehensive nature of the individual being addressed, encompassing both practical sagacity and deep discernment.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 1:5 profoundly articulates the biblical understanding that wisdom, while a divine gift, necessitates active human engagement and continuous cultivation. It underscores the theological truth that God's wisdom is boundless, perpetually inviting His people into deeper understanding and more profound application of His truth. This verse seamlessly connects to the broader biblical theme of spiritual maturity, emphasizing that genuine growth in faith is inextricably linked to growth in discernment and the practical application of God's revealed will. Furthermore, it highlights the communal dimension of wisdom, where individual spiritual and intellectual development ultimately equips believers to serve as sources of godly counsel and strategic insight for others, reflecting God's overarching desire for His people to be a beacon of light and truth in a world desperately needing divine guidance.

* [James 1:5](/james/1-5 "James 1:5 - Asking for Wisdom")
* [Proverbs 2:1-6](/proverbs/2-1-6 "Proverbs 2:1-6 - The Benefits of Wisdom")
* [Psalm 119:99](/psalms/119-99 "Psalm 119:99 - Understanding from God's Testimonies")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 1:5 presents a timeless challenge and a profound encouragement for every follower of Christ. It serves as a vital reminder that spiritual maturity is not a static destination to be reached but a dynamic, lifelong journey of learning, growth, and transformation. Regardless of our current level of knowledge or experience, there is always more of God's infinite truth to discover, more wisdom to acquire, and greater discernment to cultivate. This calls for a posture of profound humility, a willingness to always remain teachable, and an eager readiness to listen not only to the authoritative voice of God's Word but also to the wise counsel and insights of fellow believers. Embracing the principle of this verse means actively pursuing knowledge, diligently meditating on Scripture, and allowing the Holy Spirit to continuously refine our understanding and shape our character. As we grow in personal wisdom and discernment, we are simultaneously equipped by God to become a wellspring of godly counsel and strategic insight for those within our spheres of influence, thereby fulfilling our calling to be salt and light in a complex and often confused world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life or spiritual walk do you find yourself most resistant to "hearing" or receiving new instruction?**
* **How can you intentionally cultivate a more humble and teachable spirit in your daily interactions and your pursuit of God's truth?**
* **What practical steps can you commit to taking to actively "increase learning" in God's Word and deepen your understanding of His ways?**
* **Considering your current relationships and responsibilities, how might your growing wisdom enable you to offer more effective and "wise counsels" to your family, friends, or community?**

### FAQ
**What is the distinction between a "wise man" and a "man of understanding" in this verse?**

Answer: While often used in close parallel and sometimes interchangeably in Proverbs, the terms "wise man" (Hebrew: *châkâm*) and "man of understanding" (Hebrew: *bîyn*) carry complementary nuances. A *châkâm* (wise man) generally refers to someone who possesses practical skill, prudence, and the ability to live skillfully and successfully according to God's ways. It denotes a broad, practical wisdom applied to daily life and decision-making. A *bîyn* (man of understanding), on the other hand, emphasizes discernment, insight, and the ability to mentally separate or distinguish between things, grasping deeper meanings, implications, and the underlying principles of a situation. So, while the "wise man" acts skillfully and prudently, the "man of understanding" comprehends deeply and discerns accurately. The verse suggests that both are called to continuous growth: the practically wise person will deepen their learning, and the discerning person will gain the capacity for strategic, insightful counsel. Both qualities are essential for comprehensive spiritual maturity and effective living, as seen in the broader call for discernment in [Proverbs 2:3-5](/proverbs/2-3-5 "Proverbs 2:3-5 - Seeking Discernment and Understanding").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 1:5 finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ, who is not merely a wise man, but the very [wisdom of God personified](/1_corinthians/1-30 "1 Corinthians 1:30 - Christ, Our Wisdom"). Unlike human wisdom, which must continuously "hear" and "increase learning," Christ, as the eternal Word, perfectly possesses all knowledge and understanding from the Father, for in Him "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - In Whom Are Hidden All the Treasures of Wisdom")). He perfectly "heard" and perfectly obeyed the Father's will, demonstrating unparalleled humility and receptivity, even to the point of sacrificial death on a cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Obedience to Death")). Through His impeccable life, profound teachings, and ultimately His redemptive work on the cross, Jesus provides the ultimate "wise counsels" for all humanity, guiding us into truth, righteousness, and eternal life, for He is "the way, the truth, and the life" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life")). For believers, our growth in wisdom and understanding is not merely an intellectual pursuit but a profound spiritual transformation, as we are progressively conformed to the image of Christ, in whom "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - In Whom Are Hidden All the Treasures of Wisdom")). We "increase learning" by drawing from His infinite wisdom, and we "attain unto wise counsels" as the Holy Spirit, the very Spirit of Christ, guides us into all truth and teaches us all things ([John 16:13](/john/16-13 "John 16:13 - The Spirit of Truth Guides Into All Truth")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Proverbs 12:1

¶ Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof [is] brutish.

Proverbs 9:9

Give [instruction] to a wise [man], and he will be yet wiser: teach a just [man], and he will increase in learning.

1 Corinthians 10:15

¶ I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say.

Job 34:16

¶ If now [thou hast] understanding, hear this: hearken to the voice of my words.

Job 34:10

¶ Therefore hearken unto me, ye men of understanding: far be it from God, [that he should do] wickedness; and [from] the Almighty, [that he should commit] iniquity.

Psalms 119:98

¶ Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they [are] ever with me.

Psalms 119:100

I understand more than the ancients, because I keep thy precepts.