Proverbs 18:15

¶ The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge.

The heart {H3820} of the prudent {H995} getteth {H7069} knowledge {H1847}; and the ear {H241} of the wise {H2450} seeketh {H1245} knowledge {H1847}.

The mind of a person with discernment gets knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.

The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks it out.

The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; And the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge.

Proverbs 18:15 offers a concise yet profound insight into the characteristics of those who truly acquire and value knowledge. It distinguishes between the internal disposition and the active pursuit necessary for wisdom.

Context of Proverbs

The Book of Proverbs is a collection of ancient Israelite wisdom literature, primarily attributed to King Solomon. Its purpose is to impart practical wisdom for daily living, guiding individuals toward a life that honors God and flourishes in society. Proverbs often presents contrasting ideas, highlighting the differences between the wise and the foolish, the diligent and the lazy, emphasizing the importance of discernment and understanding.

Key Themes

  • The Prudent Heart: The phrase "the heart of the prudent getteth knowledge" speaks to an internal capacity and readiness. A prudent person (Hebrew: navon, meaning discerning, understanding) possesses an inner disposition that naturally grasps and retains knowledge. It's not just about passive reception, but an active internal processing and acquisition. This underscores the idea that a cultivated heart is fertile ground for understanding.
  • The Wise Ear: Complementing the heart, "the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge" emphasizes the external, active pursuit. A wise person (Hebrew: chakham, meaning skilled, sagacious) doesn't wait for knowledge to come to them but actively listens, searches, and pursues it. This highlights diligence and an insatiable desire for learning, aligning with the call to "cry after knowledge, and lift up thy voice for understanding".
  • Diligence in Learning: Both clauses underscore that true knowledge isn't stumbled upon but is acquired through intentionality—both an internal receptiveness and an external seeking. It's a continuous process for those committed to growth and wisdom.

Linguistic Insights

  • The Hebrew word for "prudent" (נָבוֹן, navon) implies someone who is discerning, understanding, and intelligent. It's a quality of insight.
  • "Getteth" (קָנָה, qanah) means to acquire, buy, or possess. It suggests an effort or investment in obtaining something valuable.
  • "Wise" (חָכָם, chakham) refers to someone who is skilled, experienced, and applies knowledge effectively.
  • "Seeketh" (בָּקַשׁ, baqash) is a strong verb meaning to search for, desire, or require. It denotes an active, diligent search.

Practical Application

This verse encourages a proactive approach to learning and spiritual growth. It teaches us that:

  1. Cultivate an Open Mind: Just as the prudent heart "getteth" knowledge, we should foster a receptive and discerning inner disposition, open to truth and understanding from various sources, especially God's Word.
  2. Actively Pursue Wisdom: Don't be passive. Like the wise ear that "seeketh" knowledge, we should diligently read, listen, study, and ask questions. This applies to spiritual truths, professional skills, and life lessons.
  3. Value Learning: The diligence implied in "getteth" and "seeketh" suggests that knowledge is a valuable commodity, worth effort and pursuit.
  4. Integrate Heart and Ear: True wisdom comes from a combination of internal readiness and external diligence. We need both a discerning spirit and an active pursuit of truth.

Proverbs 18:15 reminds us that wisdom is not merely inherited but is a dynamic process requiring an attentive heart and a diligent ear.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.
  • James 1:5

    If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all [men] liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
  • Proverbs 15:14

    ¶ The heart of him that hath understanding seeketh knowledge: but the mouth of fools feedeth on foolishness.
  • 1 Kings 3:9

    Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so great a people?
  • Psalms 119:97

    ¶ MEM. O how love I thy law! it [is] my meditation all the day.
  • Psalms 119:104

    Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way.
  • Proverbs 1:5

    A wise [man] will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels:
  • Luke 10:39

    And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word.
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