Proverbs 1:6

KJV

To understand a proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings.

KJV (with Strong's)

To understand {H995} a proverb {H4912}, and the interpretation {H4426}; the words {H1697} of the wise {H2450}, and their dark sayings {H2420}.

Complete Jewish Bible

he will understand proverbs, obscure expressions, the sayings and riddles of the wise.

Berean Standard Bible

by understanding the proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise.

American Standard Version

To understand a proverb, and a figure, The words of the wise, and their dark sayings.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 1:6 serves as a precise articulation of the book's specialized objectives, moving beyond a general impartation of wisdom to cultivate in the reader the acute intellectual and spiritual capacity required to decipher and interpret the diverse forms in which divine truth is presented. This verse emphasizes the critical necessity of transcending superficial understanding to grasp the profound, often veiled, meanings embedded within proverbs, the counsel of the wise, and even enigmatic riddles, thereby preparing the diligent student for a deeper, transformative engagement with God's multifaceted revelation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 1:6 strategically concludes the programmatic introduction to the entire book, which spans [Proverbs 1:1-7](/proverbs/1-1-7 "Proverbs 1:1-7 - The Purpose and Foundation of Wisdom"). Following the declaration of the book's authorship and its overarching purpose—to impart wisdom, instruction, and understanding to all, from the naive to the discerning, as outlined in [Proverbs 1:2-5](/proverbs/1-2-5 "Proverbs 1:2-5 - The Aims of Wisdom's Instruction")—verse 6 narrows the focus considerably. It specifies the particular skills of comprehension that the book aims to develop: not merely the acquisition of knowledge, but the cultivation of an active interpretive ability. This includes discerning the diverse literary forms that wisdom takes, such as proverbs, parables, and even riddles, thereby setting the intellectual and spiritual stage for the practical application of the subsequent chapters and preparing the reader to embrace the foundational principle of [the fear of the Lord](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the Lord as the Beginning of Knowledge").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, including Israel, wisdom literature held immense cultural and pedagogical significance. It was a primary means of transmitting moral principles, practical life skills, and societal values across generations. Proverbs, riddles, and allegories were not merely literary forms but active pedagogical tools employed by sages, elders, and even royalty to instruct the young and guide the community. This verse reflects the sophisticated nature of such instruction, acknowledging that not all wisdom was presented in a straightforward, easily digestible manner. "Dark sayings" (riddles or enigmas) were particularly valued in courtly settings or among the intellectual elite as tests of intelligence, discernment, and even diplomatic skill, famously exemplified by the Queen of Sheba's visit to Solomon to test him with "hard questions" ([1_kings/10-1-3](/1-kings/10-1-3 "1 Kings 10:1-3 - Queen of Sheba Tests Solomon's Wisdom")). The ability to comprehend and interpret these complex forms was a recognized mark of true wisdom and intellectual prowess within the ancient world, signifying a mind capable of penetrating beyond the surface.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully reinforces the overarching theme of **discernment and understanding** that permeates the entire book of Proverbs. It moves beyond a passive reception of information, emphasizing an active, engaged pursuit of truth that requires significant intellectual and spiritual effort. The explicit mention of "a proverb, and the interpretation" and "dark sayings" highlights the **complex and multifaceted nature of wisdom** itself, suggesting that divine truth is not always immediately obvious or self-evident. Instead, it often requires careful thought, diligent meditation, and even divine illumination to unlock its profound depths. This theme is foundational, preparing the reader for the diverse, sometimes challenging, and often figurative expressions of wisdom found throughout the book. Ultimately, this active pursuit of understanding is presented as an essential component of living a life rooted in [the fear of the Lord](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the Lord"), which is the very beginning of true knowledge.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **understand (Hebrew, _bîyn'_):** This primitive root signifies the mental process of separating or distinguishing, leading to a comprehensive grasp of something. It implies not merely acquiring facts, but discerning relationships, implications, and underlying truths. It denotes an active, intelligent engagement with information, leading to true comprehension, prudent action, and often, the ability to teach or instruct others. It is a deep, insightful knowing.
* **proverb (Hebrew, _mâshâl'_):** Apparently derived from a sense of superiority in mental action, this term refers to a pithy maxim, usually of a metaphorical nature. It encompasses a broad range of literary forms, including short sayings, parables, allegories, and even satirical verses. Its purpose is to convey a moral truth, observation, or principle in a memorable and often illustrative way, inviting reflection and application.
* **dark sayings (Hebrew, _chîydâh'_):** From a root meaning to "propound a riddle," this word signifies a puzzle, riddle, or enigmatic statement. It refers to a profound or obscure utterance that requires careful thought, interpretation, or even divine insight to comprehend. It suggests that some truths are not immediately accessible but are veiled, demanding deeper engagement and a discerning mind to unravel their hidden meanings.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"To understand a proverb, and the interpretation":** This initial clause sets forth the primary objective of the book of Proverbs: to enable the reader to gain a deep comprehension of the `mâshâl` (proverb) and its `mᵉlîytsâh` (interpretation). It implies that proverbs are not always self-evident but often require an explanation, a key, or a discerning mind to unlock their full meaning. The goal is to move beyond the literal words to grasp the underlying wisdom, its practical implications, and the deeper truth it conveys. This suggests an active, rather than passive, engagement with the text.
* **"the words of the wise, and their dark sayings":** This second clause expands upon the first, specifying the broader content to be understood. "The words of the wise" refers to the comprehensive body of instruction, counsel, and moral teachings originating from those who possess `châkâm` (wisdom). The phrase "and their dark sayings" (or `chîydâh`) highlights that this wisdom often comes in challenging, enigmatic forms—riddles, paradoxes, obscure statements, or profound truths veiled in figurative language—that demand careful thought, discernment, and sometimes even divine revelation to unravel their profound truths and apply them appropriately.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 1:6 is artfully constructed, employing several significant literary devices to convey its profound purpose. **Parallelism** is prominently featured, as the verse presents two closely related phrases that reinforce and expand upon each other: "a proverb, and the interpretation" and "the words of the wise, and their dark sayings." This synonymous and progressive parallelism not only adds poetic rhythm but also emphasizes the dual nature of wisdom—its common, accessible forms (proverbs, wise words) and its more challenging, enigmatic expressions (interpretations, dark sayings). The use of **metonymy** is also present, where "proverb" and "dark sayings" stand in for the broader category of wisdom literature itself, highlighting the specific types of content the reader will encounter and needs to master. Furthermore, the verse employs **enumeration** by listing the specific types of wisdom forms, providing a comprehensive scope of the intellectual and spiritual challenges the book aims to address, thereby setting clear expectations for the diligent student.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 1:6 powerfully underscores a fundamental biblical principle: divine truth often requires diligent effort, spiritual discernment, and a receptive heart to comprehend fully. It is not always presented in a straightforward, explicit manner but can be veiled in parables, metaphors, or "dark sayings" to test the hearer's readiness to receive deeper revelation and to cultivate a dependency on God for understanding. This active pursuit of understanding is presented as a vital spiritual discipline, reflecting a genuine desire to move beyond superficial knowledge into a profound, transformative encounter with God's wisdom, which is ultimately rooted in a reverent fear of the Lord. The ability to interpret these profound truths, especially those that are obscure, is ultimately a gift from God, enabling believers to navigate life's complexities with divine insight and to discern His will amidst ambiguity.

* [Psalm 78:2](/psalms/78-2 "Psalm 78:2 - Speaking in Parables and Dark Sayings")
* [Daniel 5:12](/daniel/5-12 "Daniel 5:12 - Daniel's Ability to Interpret Riddles")
* [1 Corinthians 2:7](/1-corinthians/2-7 "1 Corinthians 2:7 - God's Hidden Wisdom Revealed by the Spirit")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 1:6 serves as a profound and timely call to intellectual and spiritual diligence in our pursuit of God's truth. It challenges us to move beyond a passive reading of Scripture or a superficial understanding of life's complexities, urging us to engage deeply with the wisdom presented to us. Just as ancient proverbs and riddles required careful thought and often external interpretation, so too does much of divine wisdom demand our focused attention, meditation, and prayerful wrestling. This verse encourages us to embrace the "dark sayings"—the difficult passages of Scripture, the perplexing circumstances of life, the challenging truths that defy easy answers—as invaluable opportunities for deeper growth and spiritual discernment. It reminds us that God often reveals profound insights through forms that compel us to seek Him more earnestly, to wrestle with His Word, and to rely on the Holy Spirit for illumination. This active, diligent engagement cultivates a richer, more resilient faith, equipping us to apply God's wisdom effectively and discerningly in every area of our lives, transforming our understanding into genuine, lived wisdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life or your study of Scripture do you tend to settle for superficial understanding rather than diligently seeking deeper truth?**
* **How do you typically approach "dark sayings" or challenging passages in Scripture? Do you view them as obstacles to bypass or opportunities for profound spiritual growth?**
* **What role do prayer, meditation, and reliance on the Holy Spirit play in your personal process of understanding biblical wisdom and applying it to your daily life?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of "dark sayings" in Proverbs 1:6?**

Answer: "Dark sayings" (Hebrew: `chîydâh`) refers to riddles, enigmas, or profound, obscure statements that are not immediately clear. Their significance in [Proverbs 1:6](/proverbs/1-6 "Proverbs 1:6 - Understanding Dark Sayings") is multifaceted: first, they highlight that divine wisdom is not always presented in an obvious manner but often requires careful thought, diligent study, and spiritual interpretation to unlock its deeper meaning. Second, they serve as a test of discernment, challenging the reader to engage actively and thoughtfully with the text rather than passively receiving information. The ability to understand these complex forms was a mark of true wisdom and intellectual prowess in ancient cultures, and it points to the ongoing need for spiritual insight to grasp God's profound truths, much like Jesus later spoke in [parables that simultaneously concealed and revealed truth](/matthew/13-10-17 "Matthew 13:10-17 - The Purpose of Parables").

**How does Proverbs 1:6 relate to the overall purpose of the book of Proverbs?**

Answer: [Proverbs 1:6](/proverbs/1-6 "Proverbs 1:6 - Purpose of Understanding") acts as a specific and vital extension of the book's broader purpose outlined in [Proverbs 1:2-5](/proverbs/1-2-5 "Proverbs 1:2-5 - Aims of Wisdom's Instruction"). While the earlier verses state the general aim of imparting wisdom, instruction, and understanding, verse 6 narrows the focus to the practical skill of interpreting the *forms* of wisdom. It emphasizes that the book is designed to train the reader not just to *know* proverbs, but to *understand* them, to grasp their intricate "interpretation," and to decipher the profound "dark sayings" of the wise. This verse thus prepares the reader for the diverse, often figurative, and sometimes challenging nature of the wisdom that follows, ensuring they are equipped for deep, discerning engagement rather than superficial reading. It underscores that the book's goal is to cultivate a perceptive mind capable of unlocking hidden truths.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 1:6, with its emphasis on understanding proverbs and "dark sayings," finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is the very embodiment of divine wisdom. While the Old Testament sages conveyed wisdom in various forms, often requiring diligent interpretation, Christ Himself is declared to be "the wisdom of God" ([1_corinthians/1-24](/1-corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ the Wisdom of God")) and "in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([colossians/2-3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - Christ, the Treasure of Wisdom")). He frequently spoke in parables and "dark sayings" ([Matthew 13:34-35](/matthew/13-34-35 "Matthew 13:34-35 - Jesus Speaking in Parables")), not primarily to obscure truth entirely, but to reveal it to those with "ears to hear" and a receptive heart, while simultaneously concealing it from those whose hearts were hardened ([Mark 4:11-12](/mark/4-11-12 "Mark 4:11-12 - The Purpose of Parables")). The "interpretation" of these divine mysteries is found exclusively in Him; He is the key that unlocks the profound truths of God's kingdom and the very nature of God Himself ([john/14-6-9](/john/14-6-9 "John 14:6-9 - Jesus, the Way, Truth, and Life")). Furthermore, the "dark sayings" of the Old Testament, such as prophecies, types, and shadows, are illuminated and fully understood only in light of Christ's life, death, and resurrection ([Luke 24:27](/luke/24-27 "Luke 24:27 - Jesus Explains the Scriptures Concerning Himself")). Through the Holy Spirit, whom Christ sent, believers are given the spiritual discernment to "understand all things" ([1_john/2-27](/1-john/2-27 "1 John 2:27 - The Anointing Teaches All Things")), transforming what might otherwise remain an impenetrable riddle into clear, life-giving truth that reveals the "mystery of Christ" ([ephesians/3-4](/ephesians/3-4 "Ephesians 3:4 - The Mystery of Christ Revealed")).

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

Psalms 78:2

I will open my mouth in a parable: I will utter dark sayings of old:

Mark 4:11

And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all [these] things are done in parables:

Hebrews 5:14

But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, [even] those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

Psalms 49:4

I will incline mine ear to a parable: I will open my dark saying upon the harp.

Mark 4:34

But without a parable spake he not unto them: and when they were alone, he expounded all things to his disciples.

Acts 8:30

And Philip ran thither to [him], and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest?

Acts 8:31

And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him.