Proverbs 2:6

KJV

For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth [cometh] knowledge and understanding.

KJV (with Strong's)

For the LORD {H3068} giveth {H5414} wisdom {H2451}: out of his mouth {H6310} cometh knowledge {H1847} and understanding {H8394}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For ADONAI gives wisdom; from his mouth comes knowledge and understanding.

Berean Standard Bible

For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.

American Standard Version

For Jehovah giveth wisdom; Out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 2:6 serves as the foundational assurance in a father's exhortation to his son, declaring that true wisdom, knowledge, and understanding are not products of human ingenuity alone but are divinely bestowed. This verse establishes the LORD as the singular, ultimate source from whom all genuine insight flows, thereby validating the diligent pursuit of wisdom and assuring the seeker that their efforts are grounded in God's generous provision. It underscores the profound theological truth that spiritual and practical discernment originates directly from the very being and revelation of God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 2:6 is situated within the opening discourse of the book of Proverbs (chapters 1-9), which functions as a father's earnest instruction to his son on the pursuit and benefits of wisdom. Specifically, chapter 2 is a sustained call to seek wisdom with intense diligence, likening it to searching for hidden treasure. Verses 1-5 detail the necessary human effort—receiving God's words, inclining one's ear, applying one's heart, crying out for knowledge, and searching diligently. Verse 6 then provides the crucial theological underpinning for this arduous quest: the effort is not in vain because the very object of the search, wisdom, is a divine gift. It sets the stage for the subsequent promises of protection, guidance, and deliverance from evil ways that wisdom provides, as described in [Proverbs 2:9-22](/proverbs/2-9 "Proverbs 2:9-22 - The Benefits of Wisdom").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, wisdom was highly valued, often seen as essential for successful living, just governance, and understanding divine will. Sages and wise men played a significant role in society, offering counsel and moral instruction. The concept of wisdom (חָכְמָה, _chokmâh_) was not merely intellectual acumen but encompassed practical skill, moral discernment, and the ability to navigate life righteously and effectively. Unlike the wisdom traditions of surrounding cultures, which often focused on human experience or mythical deities, Israelite wisdom literature, particularly Proverbs, firmly rooted wisdom in the character and revelation of Yahweh. The "fear of the LORD" ([Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the LORD")) was considered the beginning, or foundation, of all true knowledge, signifying a reverent submission to God's authority and a desire to live according to His ways.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Proverbs. First, it underscores the **Divine Origination of Wisdom**, asserting that true wisdom is not an innate human capacity or a product of mere intellectual pursuit, but a gracious gift from God. This elevates wisdom from a philosophical concept to a divine attribute, intimately connected to God's very nature and revelation. Second, it highlights the **Unified Source of Spiritual Discernment**, emphasizing that wisdom, knowledge, and understanding—though distinct aspects of insight—all emanate from the same divine "mouth," signifying God's spoken word and revealed truth. This implies that to gain these, one must turn to God and His authoritative [Word](/psalms/119-105 "Psalm 119:105 - God's Word as a Lamp"). Third, it provides **Encouragement for the Diligent Seeker**. Knowing that the LORD is the giver of wisdom assures those who "[cry after knowledge, and lift up thy voice for understanding](/proverbs/2-3 "Proverbs 2:3 - Crying for Understanding")" that their earnest efforts are not in vain, but will be met by God's generous provision. This theme is echoed throughout the wisdom literature, inviting active pursuit grounded in divine promise.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** This is the covenant name of God, often translated as "Jehovah" or "the Lord," signifying the self-existent, eternal, and personal God who reveals Himself and enters into relationship with His people. Its use here emphasizes that the source of wisdom is not an impersonal force or abstract principle, but the sovereign, living God of Israel, who actively "gives" His attributes.
* **giveth (Hebrew, _nâthan'_):** A versatile primitive root meaning "to give," used with a wide latitude of application including to put, make, bestow, grant, or deliver. In this context, it highlights God's active, intentional, and generous impartation of wisdom. It is not something earned or discovered independently, but freely bestowed by the divine Giver.
* **mouth (Hebrew, _peh'_):** Literally referring to the physical mouth, but here used figuratively to represent the source of speech, utterance, and divine revelation. "Out of his mouth" powerfully conveys that knowledge and understanding are not merely concepts God possesses, but are actively spoken forth, revealed, and communicated by Him, often through His commands, laws, and prophetic utterances.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For the LORD giveth wisdom":** This opening clause establishes the ultimate and singular source of true wisdom. It is not a human attainment or a product of mere intellectual effort, but a divine gift. The use of "LORD" (Yahweh) emphasizes that this wisdom flows from the covenant-keeping, sovereign God, who is actively involved in bestowing this vital attribute upon humanity. It provides the theological foundation for the preceding exhortation to seek wisdom, assuring the seeker that their efforts are directed towards a God who is willing and able to provide.
* **"out of his mouth [cometh] knowledge and understanding":** This second clause expands on the divine source, specifying that not only wisdom but also "knowledge" and "understanding" proceed directly from God's "mouth." The imagery of God's mouth signifies His spoken word, His revelation, and His very being as the fount of all truth. "Knowledge" (דַּעַת, _daʻath_) implies an experiential, intimate acquaintance with truth, while "understanding" (תְּבוּנָה, _tâbûwn_) refers to the ability to discern, comprehend, and make sense of complex matters, distinguishing between right and wrong. Together, these terms underscore that all forms of genuine insight and discernment are revealed and imparted by God Himself.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Parallelism** is evident in the structure, where the first clause ("For the LORD giveth wisdom") is directly complemented by the second ("out of his mouth [cometh] knowledge and understanding"), reinforcing the central idea of God as the sole provider of intellectual and spiritual insight. The phrase "out of his mouth" functions as a powerful **Metaphor**, personifying God's communication and emphasizing the direct, authoritative, and revelatory nature of His impartation of wisdom, knowledge, and understanding. It suggests that these qualities are not merely concepts God possesses, but are actively spoken forth, much like a teacher imparts instruction. Furthermore, the broader context of Proverbs often employs **Personification** of wisdom (e.g., [Proverbs 8](/proverbs/8 "Proverbs 8 - Wisdom's Call")), portraying it as a divine attribute that calls out to humanity, further emphasizing its divine origin and active role in human life.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 2:6 articulates a fundamental theological truth: God is the singular, ultimate source of all true wisdom, knowledge, and understanding. This divine origination distinguishes biblical wisdom from mere human philosophy or worldly cunning, grounding it firmly in the character and revelation of the Creator. It highlights God's benevolence and His active desire to equip humanity with the discernment necessary for righteous living and navigating the complexities of life. This verse assures believers that their pursuit of wisdom is not a futile self-help endeavor but a divinely enabled journey, where God Himself generously provides the very insights they seek. It underscores the necessity of turning to God's revealed word and seeking His guidance for genuine understanding.

* [James 1:5](/james/1-5 "James 1:5 - Asking God for Wisdom")
* [1 Kings 3:9](/1_kings/3-9 "1 Kings 3:9 - Solomon's Prayer for Wisdom")
* [Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the LORD")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 2:6 offers profound encouragement and direction for believers today. It reminds us that our quest for wisdom, whether for navigating daily decisions, understanding complex theological truths, or discerning God's will, is not dependent solely on our intellectual prowess but on God's gracious provision. This truth should humble us, fostering a spirit of dependence and earnest prayer, knowing that the Giver of all good things is eager to bestow wisdom upon those who ask. It also calls us to diligent engagement with God's Word, as it is "out of His mouth" that knowledge and understanding primarily come. Therefore, consistent study, meditation, and application of Scripture become vital disciplines for cultivating divine wisdom in our lives, enabling us to live skillfully and righteously in a world often devoid of true insight.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does knowing that God is the source of wisdom impact your approach to seeking guidance and making decisions?**
* **In what specific areas of your life do you most need God's wisdom, knowledge, and understanding right now?**
* **What practical steps can you take to more diligently engage with God's "mouth"—His Word—to receive the knowledge and understanding He offers?**

### FAQ
**What is the difference between wisdom, knowledge, and understanding as mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: While often used interchangeably in common speech, in biblical Hebrew, these terms carry distinct nuances that collectively describe a holistic insight. **Wisdom (חָכְמָה, _chokmâh_)** often refers to the practical skill and discernment to live righteously and effectively in everyday life, applying truth to concrete situations. It's about knowing how to live well. **Knowledge (דַּעַת, _daʻath_)** signifies more than mere factual information; it implies an experiential, intimate acquaintance with truth and reality, often with God Himself. It's knowing the truth. **Understanding (תְּבוּנָה, _tâbûwn_)** refers to the ability to discern, comprehend, and make sense of complex matters, to distinguish between right and wrong, and to see the deeper connections and implications of things. It's knowing why things are true and how they relate. Together, they represent a complete, divinely-sourced capacity for spiritual and practical discernment.

**Does this verse imply that human effort in seeking wisdom is unnecessary?**

Answer: Absolutely not. Proverbs 2:6 provides the *reason* and *assurance* for the diligent pursuit of wisdom, rather than negating it. The preceding verses ([Proverbs 2:1-5](/proverbs/2-1 "Proverbs 2:1-5 - The Pursuit of Wisdom")) explicitly call for intense human effort: "If thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee; So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding; Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures." Our effort is a necessary response to God's invitation and a demonstration of our desire, but the ultimate source and enabling power for gaining true wisdom remain with God. Our seeking is met by His giving.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 2:6 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He is not merely a dispenser of wisdom, but the very embodiment of divine wisdom itself. As [1 Corinthians 1:24](/1_corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ the Power and Wisdom of God") declares, Christ is "the power of God, and the wisdom of God." In Him "are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - All Treasures of Wisdom in Christ")). The "mouth" from which knowledge and understanding come is perfectly manifested in the person and words of Jesus, who is the Living Word of God ([John 1:1](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - The Word was God")). Through His teachings, His life, His atoning death, and His resurrection, Jesus reveals the Father fully and provides the ultimate understanding of God's character and purposes. To truly know Christ is to possess true wisdom, knowledge, and understanding, for He is the one through whom God has spoken His final and complete revelation to humanity ([Hebrews 1:1-2](/hebrews/1-1 "Hebrews 1:1-2 - God Has Spoken by His Son")). Therefore, seeking wisdom today is fundamentally about drawing closer to Christ and allowing His Spirit to illuminate our hearts and minds with the divine truth He embodies.

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

Ephesians 1:17

That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him:

Ephesians 1:18

The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,

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.

Psalms 119:98

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

Job 32:8

But [there is] a spirit in man: and the inspiration of the Almighty giveth them understanding.

Isaiah 54:13

And all thy children [shall be] taught of the LORD; and great [shall be] the peace of thy children.

Luke 21:15

For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist.