Proverbs 22:17

KJV

¶ Bow down thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply thine heart unto my knowledge.

KJV (with Strong's)

Bow down {H5186} thine ear {H241}, and hear {H8085} the words {H1697} of the wise {H2450}, and apply {H7896} thine heart {H3820} unto my knowledge {H1847}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Pay attention, and listen to the words of the wise; apply your heart to my knowledge;

Berean Standard Bible

Incline your ear and hear the words of the wise— apply your mind to my knowledge—

American Standard Version

Incline thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, And apply thy heart unto my knowledge.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 22:17 serves as a foundational call to action, initiating a new collection of wisdom sayings by directly addressing the reader or student. It articulates the essential prerequisites for acquiring and internalizing divine wisdom: a humble and attentive posture of listening, a discerning reception of counsel from experienced and godly teachers, and a profound, holistic commitment of one's entire inner being to integrate this knowledge into practical living. This verse establishes that true wisdom is not merely a passive absorption of information but an active, intentional engagement that demands both intellectual reception and heartfelt application, leading to personal transformation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 22:17 marks a significant structural transition within the book of Proverbs, introducing a distinct section often identified as "The Sayings of the Wise" (Proverbs 22:17-24:34). Unlike the preceding chapters, which frequently employ the direct address of a father to his son or the personification of Wisdom calling out, this verse inaugurates a collection of thirty individual, pithy sayings. These sayings are typically more didactic and direct in their instructional tone, offering practical guidance for daily life. Proverbs 22:17 functions as an overture to this new segment, setting the pedagogical tone and outlining the necessary disposition—a receptive heart and attentive ear—required for the proper reception and internalization of the wisdom that follows. This shift signals a more formalized teacher-to-disciple dynamic, emphasizing the deliberate and active nature of the learning process.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the transmission of wisdom was a cornerstone of societal and religious life, primarily occurring through oral tradition, mentorship, and formal instruction within family units or specialized schools. "The wise" (Hebrew: *chakam*) were highly esteemed figures—elders, scribes, or sages—who had cultivated deep knowledge and discernment through extensive experience, keen observation, and, most importantly, through their profound understanding of God's covenant and the created order. The imperative to "bow down thine ear" reflects a deeply ingrained cultural norm of respect and humility shown towards a teacher or elder, symbolizing a readiness to receive instruction. In this culture, knowledge was never merely intellectual assent; it was intrinsically linked to moral character and practical living, aiming to shape the entirety of one's life. The emphasis on the "heart" (Hebrew: *lêb*) is crucial, as ancient Near Eastern thought understood the heart not merely as a physical organ but as the holistic center of intellect, will, emotion, and moral decision-making, as seen in the call to love God with all one's heart in [Deuteronomy 6:4-6](/deuteronomy/6-4-6 "Deuteronomy 6:4-6 - The Shema and Teaching Children").
* **Key Themes:** This verse encapsulates several pivotal themes that resonate throughout the book of Proverbs and the broader biblical wisdom tradition. Firstly, it underscores the **primacy of attentive listening** as the indispensable gateway to wisdom. True learning commences with a humble, focused, and intentional receptivity, a willingness to incline oneself towards truth rather than approaching it with arrogance or distraction. Secondly, it highlights the **authority and intrinsic value of wise instruction**, recognizing that genuine wisdom is often mediated through the counsel of those who have walked faithfully with God and gained profound discernment. This theme finds its echo in [Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Knowledge"), which declares that "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge." Lastly, and perhaps most profoundly, the verse emphasizes the **holistic application of knowledge**. It is insufficient merely to hear or intellectually grasp wisdom; it must be "applied to the heart," meaning it must penetrate one's innermost being, shaping thoughts, desires, and actions. This deep integration of knowledge into one's very life is the ultimate objective of biblical wisdom, leading to a transformed character and righteous living, a concept powerfully illustrated in the parable of the wise and foolish builders in [Matthew 7:24-27](/matthew/7-24-27 "Matthew 7:24-27 - The Wise and Foolish Builders").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Bow down (Hebrew, _nâṭâh'_):** From H5186, meaning "to stretch or spread out; by implication, to bend away (including moral deflection); used in a great variety of application." In this specific context, it denotes a deliberate, conscious act of inclining the ear, symbolizing a posture of profound humility, focused attentiveness, and an eager readiness to receive instruction. It is not a passive hearing but an active, intentional leaning in, signifying a willingness to submit to the teaching.
* **Hear (Hebrew, _shâmaʻ'_):** From H8085, meaning "to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)." This word transcends mere auditory perception; it inherently implies understanding, paying careful heed, and frequently, acting in obedient response to what is heard. It signifies a receptive and obedient listening that culminates in comprehension and practical application, moving beyond superficial hearing.
* **Heart (Hebrew, _lêb'_):** From H3820, meaning "the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the centre of anything." In ancient Hebrew thought, the *lêb* is understood as the comprehensive seat of intellect, emotion, volition, and moral choice. To "apply thine heart" (literally, "set your heart" or "place your heart") means to engage one's entire inner being—mind, will, and affections—in the process of receiving, internalizing, and integrating knowledge, ensuring it shapes one's whole person.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Bow down thine ear":** This opening imperative command initiates the call to wisdom, demanding both a physical and spiritual posture of humility and focused attention. It implies a deliberate act of setting aside distractions and pride, actively inclining oneself to listen intently to the instruction that is about to be communicated. This posture is presented as a fundamental prerequisite for genuine learning and reception of truth.
* **"and hear the words of the wise":** Following the command to incline, this phrase specifies both the content and the authoritative source of the instruction. The listener is urged to intelligently receive and comprehend the teachings of those who possess wisdom—individuals who have gained discernment through experience, careful observation, and, crucially, through divine insight and a life lived in the fear of the Lord. This highlights the profound value of seeking out and heeding sound, godly counsel.
* **"and apply thine heart unto my knowledge":** This final clause elevates the instruction beyond mere reception to profound internal transformation. "Apply thine heart" signifies a deliberate, conscious act of directing one's entire inner self—intellect, emotions, and will—towards the knowledge being offered by the teacher. The ultimate goal is not merely intellectual understanding, but a deep, personal internalization of the wisdom that penetrates one's innermost being, shaping character, desires, and behavior, thereby making the knowledge truly one's own and leading to practical righteousness.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 22:17 masterfully employs several potent **Literary Devices** to convey its urgent and profound message. The most prominent device is the **Imperative Mood**, evident in the direct commands "Bow down," "hear," and "apply." These are not gentle suggestions but authoritative instructions, underscoring the critical importance and necessity of these actions for the acquisition of true wisdom. The phrase "Bow down thine ear" functions as a vivid **Metaphor** for humble and attentive listening, transforming a physical act of inclining the head into a spiritual disposition of receptivity. It paints a compelling picture of leaning in, demonstrating eagerness, respect, and a willingness to learn. Furthermore, the verse exhibits a form of **Parallelism**, specifically **Synthetic Parallelism**, where the second and third clauses progressively build upon and complete the thought initiated by the first. "Bow down thine ear" establishes the necessary posture, which then leads to "hear the words of the wise," a command for intelligent reception. This is then deepened and made personally transformative by "apply thine heart unto my knowledge," emphasizing internal appropriation. This logical progression highlights that true wisdom requires not just passive hearing, but active, internal integration. The concluding phrase "my knowledge" also subtly introduces a layer of intimacy and personal relationship between the teacher and the student, enhancing the instructional process.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 22:17 profoundly connects to the broader biblical emphasis on the nature of true wisdom, which is not merely intellectual accumulation but a holistic, transformative engagement with divine truth. It underscores that God's wisdom, often mediated through human teachers and the written Word, demands a receptive heart and an obedient will. This verse echoes the consistent call throughout Scripture for diligent attention to God's voice and a wholehearted commitment to living out His precepts. It reminds us that spiritual growth and discernment are contingent upon a humble posture, a discerning ear, and a heart fully yielded to the knowledge that leads to life. This active receptivity is foundational for a life lived in accordance with God's will and for bearing the fruit of righteousness, reflecting a deep theological truth that hearing and doing are inseparable in God's economy.

* [Deuteronomy 4:10](/deuteronomy/4-10 "Deuteronomy 4:10 - Hear and Learn")
* [James 1:22](/james/1-22 "James 1:22 - Be Doers of the Word")
* [Psalm 119:34](/psalm/119-34 "Psalm 119:34 - Give Me Understanding to Keep Your Law")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 22:17 offers timeless and profoundly practical wisdom for anyone sincerely seeking to grow in understanding and live a life aligned with God's divine purposes. In a contemporary world saturated with constant noise, distractions, and an overwhelming influx of information, the command to "bow down thine ear" serves as a powerful and counter-cultural invitation to cultivate intentional, humble, and focused listening. This implies far more than merely hearing passively; it demands actively inclining ourselves towards truth, especially the profound truths found in God's inspired Word and the discerning counsel of godly mentors and spiritual elders. Furthermore, the imperative to "apply thine heart unto my knowledge" challenges us to transcend mere intellectual assent and move towards deep, transformative internalization. It calls us to allow divine wisdom to penetrate our innermost being, shaping not only our thoughts but also our deepest desires, motivations, and subsequent actions, leading to genuine character formation and spiritual maturity rather than superficial or theoretical knowledge. This verse encourages a lifelong, active pursuit of wisdom, characterized by humility, discernment, and an unwavering, wholehearted commitment to living out what we learn.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life do you find it most challenging to "bow down your ear" and truly listen, especially to difficult truths, constructive criticism, or wise counsel that challenges your preconceived notions?**
* **How does your current approach to learning, studying Scripture, or receiving spiritual instruction reflect the command to "apply your heart" to God's knowledge, ensuring it moves beyond mere intellectual understanding to deep personal transformation?**
* **What concrete, practical steps can you commit to taking this week to cultivate a more humble and receptive posture toward wisdom, whether it comes directly from God's Word or through the guidance of wise individuals in your life?**

### FAQ
**What does "Bow down thine ear" specifically mean in this context?**

Answer: "Bow down thine ear" (Hebrew: *natah ozen*) is a vivid, active metaphorical command that extends far beyond simply hearing sound. It signifies a deliberate, humble posture of attentive listening. It implies an intentional leaning in, a willingness to set aside distractions, personal pride, or preconceived notions, and to actively make oneself receptive and open to the words being spoken. It is a gesture of profound respect towards the speaker and a demonstration of eagerness to receive, understand, and ultimately submit to the instruction being imparted.

**Who are "the wise" whose words are to be heard?**

Answer: "The wise" (Hebrew: *chakam*) refers to individuals who possess practical discernment, profound understanding, and moral insight, often gained through extensive life experience, keen observation of God's creation, and especially, through their intimate relationship with God and His revealed truth. In ancient Israel, this could encompass respected elders, sages, scribes, or even parents who had accumulated and consistently lived out divine wisdom. Their words are deemed valuable and authoritative because they are rooted in a deep fear of the Lord and a practical understanding of how life truly works according to God's righteous design. This aligns perfectly with the broader teaching of [Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Knowledge") that true wisdom commences with reverence for God.

**Why is "apply thine heart" emphasized, rather than just "apply your mind"?**

Answer: In ancient Hebrew anthropology, the "heart" (Hebrew: *leb*) is a far more comprehensive concept than the modern English understanding. It is considered the holistic seat of the entire inner person—encompassing intellect, emotions, will, conscience, and moral decision-making. Therefore, to "apply thine heart" (Hebrew: *shith leb*) means to direct one's entire being—mind, will, and affections—towards the knowledge being presented. It is about internalizing the wisdom so deeply that it shapes not just what you think, but also what you feel, what you desire, and how you ultimately choose to act. It demands a holistic commitment to integrate the knowledge into one's character and daily living, leading to profound transformation rather than mere intellectual information. This holistic engagement is absolutely crucial for genuine spiritual formation, as powerfully highlighted in passages like [Proverbs 4:23](/proverbs/4-23 "Proverbs 4:23 - Guard Your Heart Above All Else").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 22:17, with its urgent call to humble listening and heartfelt application of wisdom, finds its ultimate fulfillment and perfect embodiment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament wise men offered profound insights and guidance, their wisdom was always partial and preparatory, pointing forward to a greater reality. Jesus, however, is presented in the New Testament as the very **Wisdom of God incarnate** ([1 Corinthians 1:30](/1_corinthians/1-30 "1 Corinthians 1:30 - Christ, Our Wisdom and Righteousness")). He is the one 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")). The "words of the wise" find their perfect, authoritative, and life-giving expression in the teachings of Christ, who spoke with unparalleled truth and divine authority, declaring, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life")). Furthermore, the profound call to "apply thine heart unto my knowledge" is perfectly answered in the New Covenant, where God promises to write His law not merely on tablets of stone but directly on our hearts ([Hebrews 8:10](/hebrews/8-10 "Hebrews 8:10 - The New Covenant Written on Hearts")), enabling true internalization, transformation, and willing obedience through the indwelling Holy Spirit. Jesus himself extended the ultimate invitation, saying, "Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls" ([Matthew 11:29](/matthew/11-29 "Matthew 11:29 - Take My Yoke and Learn From Me")). Thus, to truly bow down our ear and apply our heart to "my knowledge" is ultimately to submit to, learn from, and follow Christ, who is not only the source and sum of all true wisdom but also the divine enabler who empowers us to live out His truth by His Spirit.

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 23:12

¶ Apply thine heart unto instruction, and thine ears to the words of knowledge.

Proverbs 3:1

¶ My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments:

Psalms 90:12

¶ So teach [us] to number our days, that we may apply [our] hearts unto wisdom.

Proverbs 2:2

So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, [and] apply thine heart to understanding;

Proverbs 2:5

Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God.

Ecclesiastes 7:25

I applied mine heart to know, and to search, and to seek out wisdom, and the reason [of things], and to know the wickedness of folly, even of foolishness [and] madness:

Proverbs 1:3

To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity;