Proverbs 22:20

Have not I written to thee excellent things in counsels and knowledge,

Have not I written {H3789} to thee {H8032} excellent things {H7991} in counsels {H4156} and knowledge {H1847},

I have written you worthwhile things full of good counsel and knowledge,

Have I not written for you thirty sayings about counsel and knowledge,

Have not I written unto thee excellent things Of counsels and knowledge,

Commentary

Proverbs 22:20 serves as a rhetorical question from the wise teacher, emphasizing the profound value and divine origin of the wisdom he has already imparted. It underscores the importance and authority of the instructions contained within the book of Proverbs itself.

Context

This verse is part of a section of Proverbs often titled "The Words of the Wise" (beginning around Proverbs 22:17 and extending to Proverbs 24:34). Unlike the more general proverbs found earlier, this section often presents advice in direct address, resembling a master instructing a disciple. The book of Proverbs as a whole is a cornerstone of biblical wisdom literature, designed to impart practical wisdom, moral discernment, and a fear of the Lord for daily living in ancient Israel and beyond.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "excellent things" in the King James Version translates the Hebrew word shalishim (ืฉึธืืœึดืฉึดืื™ื). This word has various interpretations. While some scholars suggest it refers to "thirty sayings" (connecting to a possible collection of 30 maxims in this section), the KJV's rendering of "excellent things" or "weighty sayings" emphasizes the quality and importance of the instruction. It implies that the wisdom presented is not trivial or casual but is of superior value, deserving serious attention and careful consideration from the student.

Key Themes

  • The Authority and Value of Divine Instruction: The rhetorical question "Have not I written to thee...?" highlights that the wisdom being shared is not merely human opinion but authoritative, carefully composed, and inherently valuable. It points to the divine source behind the human author.
  • Emphasis on Knowledge and Counsel: The "excellent things" are specifically identified as "counsels and knowledge." This signifies that the wisdom offered encompasses both intellectual understanding and practical guidance for making sound decisions and navigating life's complexities. It's wisdom meant to be applied.
  • A Call to Heed and Apply: By reminding the recipient of what has already been written, the verse implicitly calls for renewed attention, careful reflection, and ultimately, the diligent application of this profound wisdom. This aligns with the broader purpose of Proverbsโ€”to make one wise and understanding.

Practical Application

Proverbs 22:20 serves as a timeless reminder for believers today regarding the enduring value of God's Word. In a world overflowing with information and advice, this verse directs us back to the Scriptures as the ultimate source of "excellent things" โ€“ true counsel and knowledge. It encourages us to diligently engage with the Bible, recognizing it as divinely inspired and profitable for instruction. Just as the ancient student was expected to internalize and apply the wisdom, we are called to not merely read the Bible, but to understand, cherish, and live out its truths, allowing it to be a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path.

Note: Commentary was generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash, 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.

Please remember that only the commentary section is AI-generated. The main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are sourced from trusted and verified materials.

Cross-References

  • Proverbs 8:6

    Hear; for I will speak of excellent things; and the opening of my lips [shall be] right things.

  • 2 Timothy 3:15

    And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

  • 2 Timothy 3:17

    That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

  • 2 Peter 1:19

    ยถ We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:

  • 2 Peter 1:21

    For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake [as they were] moved by the Holy Ghost.

  • Psalms 12:6

    The words of the LORD [are] pure words: [as] silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.

  • Hosea 8:12

    I have written to him the great things of my law, [but] they were counted as a strange thing.
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