Proverbs 22:17

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

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}.

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

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

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

Proverbs 22:17 serves as an important introductory call to attention, marking the beginning of a new section within the book of Proverbs, often referred to as "The Sayings of the Wise" (Proverbs 22:17-24:34). This verse sets a foundational tone for receiving and internalizing the practical wisdom that follows.

Context

The book of Proverbs is a collection of divine wisdom, offering guidance for living a righteous and flourishing life. Prior sections often feature parental instruction or the personification of Wisdom calling out. Proverbs 22:17 shifts slightly, introducing a direct appeal from the teacher to the student, emphasizing the prerequisite attitude for learning. It underscores that true wisdom isn't passively acquired but demands active engagement of both the mind and the heart.

Key Themes

  • Attentive Listening: The phrase "Bow down thine ear" is a vivid metaphor for humble and focused attention. It implies a willingness to incline oneself, setting aside distractions and preconceived notions to truly absorb what is being communicated. This posture is crucial for effective learning, especially concerning profound truths.
  • Value of Wise Instruction: The verse stresses the importance of hearing "the words of the wise." This refers to insights passed down through generations, often inspired by God, designed to guide individuals in making sound decisions and navigating life's complexities. It highlights the benefit of seeking out and learning from those who possess spiritual and practical discernment.
  • Heartfelt Application of Knowledge: More than just intellectual understanding, "apply thine heart unto my knowledge" signifies a deep personal commitment. The Hebrew concept of the heart (lev) encompasses the intellect, will, emotions, and conscience—the entire inner being. To apply one's heart means to internalize, meditate upon, and actively integrate this knowledge into one's character and actions. It's about transformation, not just information. This echoes the biblical call to be doers of the word, and not hearers only.

Linguistic Insights

  • The Hebrew phrase for "Bow down thine ear" is natah ozen (נָטָה אֹזֶן), which literally means "stretch out the ear" or "incline the ear." It conveys a deliberate, humble posture of readiness to listen, distinct from merely hearing sound.
  • "Apply thine heart" translates the Hebrew shith lev (שִׁית לֵב), meaning "set the heart" or "place the heart." This emphasizes a conscious and intentional act of directing one's entire inner self towards the knowledge being offered. The "heart" (lev / לֵב) in Hebrew wisdom literature is the center of thought, decision, and emotion, making the application a holistic commitment. This concept is vital for understanding other passages like Proverbs 4:23, which speaks of guarding the heart.

Practical Application

Proverbs 22:17 offers timeless counsel for anyone seeking genuine growth and understanding. It encourages us to:

  1. Cultivate Humility: Approach learning with a humble spirit, recognizing that wisdom often comes from unexpected sources or through disciplined study of God's Word.
  2. Seek Wise Counsel: Actively listen to and learn from those who exhibit wisdom, whether through mentorship, sound teaching, or the timeless truths found in Scripture. Remember that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.
  3. Engage Holistically: Don't just hear information; strive to internalize it, allowing it to shape your thoughts, attitudes, and actions. True knowledge isn't merely accumulated facts but a transformative force.

This verse reminds us that the journey of wisdom begins with a receptive spirit and culminates in a life transformed by applied knowledge.

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.

  • 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;

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