Proverbs 20:15

KJV

¶ There is gold, and a multitude of rubies: but the lips of knowledge [are] a precious jewel.

KJV (with Strong's)

There is {H3426} gold {H2091}, and a multitude {H7230} of rubies {H6443}: but the lips {H8193} of knowledge {H1847} are a precious {H3366} jewel {H3627}.

Complete Jewish Bible

A person may have gold and a wealth of pearls, but lips informed by knowledge are a precious jewel.

Berean Standard Bible

There is an abundance of gold and rubies, but lips of knowledge are a rare treasure.

American Standard Version

There is gold, and abundance of rubies; But the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 20:15 offers a profound declaration on true value, establishing a stark contrast between the fleeting allure of material wealth and the enduring, incomparable worth of wisdom expressed through speech. It asserts that while tangible riches like gold and an abundance of rubies are highly prized by the world, the articulate and discerning words that flow from a heart of genuine knowledge constitute a treasure of far greater and more lasting significance, a jewel beyond price.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 20 is part of the "Proverbs of Solomon" (chapters 10-22:16), a collection of pithy, divinely inspired sayings designed to impart wisdom and instruct in righteous living. This chapter, like many others in Proverbs, often juxtaposes contrasting ideas – wisdom versus folly, diligence versus laziness, righteousness versus wickedness – to highlight the path of life. Verse 15 specifically follows proverbs dealing with the dangers of surety (v. 16), dishonest gain (v. 17), and the importance of counsel (v. 18), leading into warnings against gossip (v. 19) and disrespect for parents (v. 20). Within this broader context, Proverbs 20:15 serves as a foundational statement on what truly holds value, setting the stage for discernment in all areas of life, particularly in speech and counsel.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Israel, like many ancient Near Eastern societies, valued precious metals and stones as symbols of wealth, status, and security. Gold and rubies were highly prized commodities, often used for adornment, trade, and as indicators of royal or priestly authority. However, within the wisdom tradition of Israel, there was a consistent counter-cultural emphasis that elevated intangible virtues above material possessions. The scribal culture placed a high premium on knowledge, understanding, and the ability to articulate wisdom, as these were seen as gifts from God and essential for societal flourishing and just governance. The "lips of knowledge" would have been recognized as a source of counsel, instruction, and judicial wisdom, vital for both individual and communal well-being.

* **Key Themes:** This proverb powerfully reinforces several overarching themes found throughout the Book of Proverbs. Firstly, it underscores **the superiority of wisdom over material wealth**, a recurring motif seen in passages like [Proverbs 3:13-15](/proverbs/3-13 "Proverbs 3:13-15 - The Blessings of Wisdom") where wisdom is declared more precious than rubies, and [Proverbs 8:10-11](/proverbs/8-10 "Proverbs 8:10-11 - Wisdom's Value Compared to Gold and Silver"). Secondly, it highlights **the immense value and power of speech**, particularly wise and discerning words. The "lips of knowledge" are not merely a passive possession but an active expression of wisdom, capable of guiding, teaching, and building up, a theme echoed in [Proverbs 15:23](/proverbs/15-23 "Proverbs 15:23 - A Word Fitly Spoken"). Lastly, the verse implicitly touches on the theme of **true prosperity and lasting inheritance**, contrasting the temporary nature of earthly treasures with the enduring impact of spiritual and intellectual wealth, aligning with the broader biblical principle of seeking treasures that last, as taught by Jesus in [Matthew 6:19-21](/matthew/6-19 "Matthew 6:19-21 - Treasures in Heaven").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **gold (Hebrew, _zâhâb'_):** From an unused root meaning "to shimmer," this term refers to the precious metal, gold. In the biblical context, gold is consistently used as a standard of material wealth, beauty, and value. Its inclusion here sets up the initial standard of worldly treasure against which the "lips of knowledge" are measured and found superior.
* **knowledge (Hebrew, _daʻath'_):** Derived from the verb "to know" (yadaʻ), _daʻath_ signifies more than mere intellectual acquaintance. It implies deep understanding, discernment, and experiential wisdom. It is a comprehensive grasp of truth, often with moral and ethical implications, leading to right action and speech. The "lips of knowledge" therefore speak from a place of profound insight and moral clarity, not just factual information.
* **jewel (Hebrew, _kᵉlîy'_):** This word is broad in meaning, referring to "something prepared," an "apparatus," "implement," "utensil," "vessel," or "weapon." When combined with "precious" (_yᵉqâr_, H3366), it forms the phrase "precious jewel" or "valuable article." The use of _kᵉlîy_ here emphasizes that the "lips of knowledge" are not just a concept, but a tangible, highly prized possession or instrument, akin to a finely crafted and valuable object.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"There is gold, and a multitude of rubies:"** This opening clause establishes the common understanding of immense wealth and value in the ancient world. Gold represents the most esteemed precious metal, while "a multitude of rubies" (or pearls, as _pânîyn_ can also imply) signifies an abundance of highly prized gemstones. Together, they form a vivid picture of material riches that are universally coveted and considered the epitome of earthly treasure.
* **"but the lips of knowledge [are] a precious jewel."** This clause introduces a powerful contrast ("but"), shifting the focus from material wealth to an intangible, yet far superior, form of value. "The lips of knowledge" personifies the spoken expression of deep understanding and discernment. It is not merely the knowledge itself, but its articulation—the ability to speak wisely, offer sound counsel, and communicate truth—that is deemed "a precious jewel." This highlights the active, communicative aspect of wisdom as an invaluable asset, surpassing the static worth of gold and gems.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 20:15 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message. **Juxtaposition** is central, sharply contrasting "gold and a multitude of rubies" with "the lips of knowledge." This creates a powerful rhetorical effect, immediately highlighting the disparity in value. **Metaphor** is evident in describing "the lips of knowledge" as "a precious jewel," equating the abstract concept of wise speech with a tangible, highly prized object. This makes the intangible value of wisdom more concrete and relatable. Furthermore, **Personification** is subtly used by attributing "knowledge" to "lips," suggesting that knowledge is not merely an internal state but an active, speaking entity. This emphasizes the practical, communicative dimension of wisdom. The proverb's concise, balanced structure also demonstrates **Parallelism**, a hallmark of Hebrew poetry, where the two clauses, though contrasting, mirror each other in their declarative nature, reinforcing the core message.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This proverb deeply embeds itself within the broader biblical theology of wisdom as a divine attribute and a gift to humanity, far surpassing any earthly possession. It teaches that true wealth is not accumulated by material gain but by the cultivation and expression of God-given discernment. The "lips of knowledge" are a conduit for divine truth, reflecting God's own wisdom and His desire for humanity to live in accordance with His righteous principles. This perspective challenges a purely materialistic worldview, redirecting focus to the enduring spiritual and intellectual treasures that align with God's kingdom values. The ability to speak wisely, to offer counsel rooted in truth, and to communicate understanding is presented as a rare and invaluable commodity, reflecting the very character of God, who speaks creation into being and reveals His will through His Word.

* [Proverbs 16:16](/proverbs/16-16 "Proverbs 16:16 - How much better to get wisdom than gold!")
* [Job 28:15-19](/job/28-15 "Job 28:15-19 - Wisdom's Price is Beyond Rubies")
* [Matthew 6:33](/matthew/6-33 "Matthew 6:33 - Seek First the Kingdom of God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 20:15 serves as a timeless call to re-evaluate our priorities in a world often consumed by the pursuit of material wealth. It challenges us to consider what we truly value and invest our time and energy in. Rather than solely accumulating possessions that can perish or be lost, this proverb encourages us to cultivate an inner richness – a deep understanding of God's truth and a discerning heart – and to then express that wisdom through our words. Our speech, far from being trivial, is presented as a powerful instrument, a "precious jewel" that can bring immense value to others and honor to God. This means actively seeking wisdom through study of Scripture, prayer, and listening to godly counsel. It also means exercising intentionality in our communication, ensuring our words are seasoned with grace, truth, and insight, building up rather than tearing down.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What do I truly value most in my life, and how do my daily actions reflect those values?**
* **In what ways can I intentionally cultivate "lips of knowledge" in my own life?**
* **How can I use my words today to bring wisdom, encouragement, or truth to those around me?**
* **Am I more focused on accumulating external wealth or internal wisdom? How can I rebalance my priorities?**

### FAQ
**What is the primary message of Proverbs 20:15?**

Answer: The primary message of Proverbs 20:15 is that the value of wise and discerning speech ("the lips of knowledge") far surpasses the value of any material wealth, such as gold or precious rubies. It emphasizes that true richness lies in the ability to articulate profound understanding and offer sound counsel, which is an enduring and invaluable asset. This aligns with the broader wisdom tradition in Proverbs that consistently elevates wisdom above all earthly possessions, as seen in passages like [Proverbs 3:13-15](/proverbs/3-13 "Proverbs 3:13-15 - The Blessings of Wisdom").

**Why does the proverb use "lips of knowledge" instead of just "knowledge"?**

Answer: The phrase "lips of knowledge" highlights the practical and communicative aspect of wisdom. It's not merely about possessing knowledge internally, but about the ability to express it effectively, to speak words that are insightful, true, and beneficial. This emphasizes the impact of spoken wisdom in guiding, teaching, and influencing others. It suggests that knowledge becomes truly valuable when it is articulated and shared, much like a precious jewel is meant to be seen and appreciated, rather than hidden away. This concept is also reflected in [Proverbs 25:11](/proverbs/25-11 "Proverbs 25:11 - A Word Fitly Spoken"), which speaks of "a word fitly spoken" as being like "apples of gold in settings of silver."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 20:15 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is the very embodiment of divine wisdom and the perfect expression of "lips of knowledge." While the proverb speaks of the value of human wisdom, Christ is presented in the New Testament as "the power of God and the wisdom of God" ([1 Corinthians 1:24](/1_corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ, the Wisdom of God")). His teachings, delivered through His "lips of knowledge," were not merely human insights but words of eternal life, spoken with unparalleled authority and grace ([John 6:68](/john/6-68 "John 6:68 - Words of Eternal Life"); [Luke 4:22](/lukes/4-22 "Luke 4:22 - Gracious Words from Jesus")). Unlike earthly treasures that fade, Christ's words are imperishable and foundational to true life ([Matthew 24:35](/matthew/24-35 "Matthew 24:35 - Heaven and Earth Will Pass Away, But My Words Will Not")). He is the "precious jewel" of wisdom, whose value infinitely surpasses all worldly gold and rubies, offering a treasure that truly satisfies and endures for eternity to all who believe in Him ([Philippians 3:7-8](/philippians/3-7 "Philippians 3:7-8 - Paul's Loss for Christ")).

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 25:12

[As] an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, [so is] a wise reprover upon an obedient ear.

Proverbs 8:11

For wisdom [is] better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it.

Proverbs 16:24

¶ Pleasant words [are as] an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.

Proverbs 15:7

¶ The lips of the wise disperse knowledge: but the heart of the foolish [doeth] not so.

Proverbs 16:16

¶ How much better [is it] to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!

Ephesians 4:29

Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.

Romans 10:14

How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?