Proverbs 22:20

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

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

Complete Jewish Bible

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

Berean Standard Bible

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

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 22:20 functions as a rhetorical question posed by the wise teacher, emphatically asserting the profound value, divine authority, and comprehensive nature of the wisdom he has already diligently committed to writing. It serves as a powerful validation of the instructions contained within the book of Proverbs, urging the recipient to recognize the superior quality and essential truth of the "counsels and knowledge" presented, thereby calling for diligent attention and application.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 22:20 is situated within a distinct section of the book often referred to as "The Words of the Wise" (beginning around [Proverbs 22:17](/proverbs/22-17 "Proverbs 22:17 - The Words of the Wise Begin") and extending through [Proverbs 24:34](/proverbs/24-34 "Proverbs 24:34 - End of the Words of the Wise")). Unlike the more generalized, often pithy, two-line proverbs found in earlier chapters, this section frequently adopts a direct address from a teacher to a student, marked by imperative verbs and explanatory clauses. This particular verse, with its rhetorical question, acts as a self-referential statement, underscoring the gravity and established nature of the preceding and forthcoming instructions within this specific collection of wisdom. It functions as a meta-commentary on the very text being conveyed, reinforcing the authority and importance of the wisdom that the teacher has taken the effort to record for the student's benefit.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of Proverbs emerges from the rich tradition of ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature, though distinctively rooted in Israel's covenant relationship with Yahweh. In ancient Israel, wisdom was not merely intellectual acumen but practical skill for living righteously and prosperously within God's created order. Instruction often occurred within familial settings (father to son) or through formal wisdom schools, where scribes and sages compiled and transmitted foundational truths. The act of "writing" (as mentioned in this verse) was a significant and authoritative act, signifying permanence, careful composition, and a deliberate transmission of established truths. The audience would have understood written instruction as carrying considerable weight and authority, especially when attributed to a respected sage or prophet, implying a divine origin or endorsement for the "excellent things" being recorded.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully reinforces several overarching themes prevalent throughout the book of Proverbs. Firstly, it highlights the **Authority and Value of Divine Instruction**. The rhetorical question implies that the wisdom imparted is not merely human opinion but carries inherent weight and importance, demanding serious consideration and obedience. Secondly, it emphasizes the **Comprehensive Nature of Wisdom**, specifically identifying it as "counsels and knowledge." This signifies that true wisdom encompasses both practical guidance for decision-making and deep intellectual understanding, aligning with the book's purpose to impart [wisdom and instruction](/proverbs/1-2 "Proverbs 1:2 - Purpose of Proverbs"). Finally, it implicitly conveys a **Call to Heed and Apply**. By reminding the recipient of what has already been written, the verse serves as a summons to renewed attention, diligent reflection, and ultimately, the practical application of this profound wisdom, which is vital for living a life that [fears the Lord](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the Lord") and walks in His ways.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **written (Hebrew, _kâthab'_):** This word (H3789) is a primitive root meaning "to grave" or "to write." It implies a deliberate act of inscribing or recording, signifying permanence, authority, and careful composition. In this context, it emphasizes that the wisdom is not fleeting oral tradition but established, enduring instruction, deliberately set down for reliable transmission.
* **excellent things (Hebrew, _shâlîysh'_):** This word (H7991) fundamentally refers to "a triple" or "third." Its various applications in the Old Testament include a three-stringed musical instrument, a three-fold measure (implying abundance or fullness), or an officer of the "third rank," which often denoted a high-ranking military commander or a chief officer. The KJV's translation "excellent things" in this context is an interpretive rendering, likely derived from the idea of something being of the highest quality, importance, or principal matter. Thus, the wisdom written is not merely ordinary but of superior, weighty, and foundational significance.
* **counsels (Hebrew, _môwʻêtsâh'_):** Derived from the root meaning "to advise" or "to consult," this term (H4156) denotes a "purpose," "advice," or "counsel." In the context of Proverbs, it refers to the strategic, well-considered guidance and deliberate plans that lead to wise living. These are not mere suggestions but authoritative directives designed to shape one's decisions and life trajectory.
* **knowledge (Hebrew, _daʻath'_):** This word (H1847) signifies "knowledge," "understanding," or "discernment." It encompasses not just factual information but a deep, experiential acquaintance with truth and reality, often with moral and spiritual implications. In Proverbs, "knowledge" is intrinsically linked to the "fear of the Lord" and is the foundation upon which wise living is built, enabling one to navigate life's complexities with insight and integrity.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Have not I written to thee":** This opening phrase is a rhetorical question, serving to emphasize and affirm rather than to inquire. The wise teacher is not asking if he has written, but rather asserting that he *has indeed* written. The act of writing signifies permanence, authority, and deliberate composition. The direct address "to thee" personalizes the instruction, indicating that this wisdom is specifically intended for the student's benefit and application, demanding a personal response.
* **"excellent things":** This phrase, translating the Hebrew _shâlîysh_, highlights the superior quality and profound significance of the content that has been written. It implies that the wisdom imparted is not trivial or mundane but is weighty, precious, and of the highest caliber, deserving of the student's utmost attention and reverence. It suggests that these are core truths, essential for life.
* **"in counsels and knowledge":** This specifies the nature of the "excellent things." The wisdom provided encompasses both practical "counsels" (guidance, advice, purpose) for making sound decisions and deep "knowledge" (understanding, discernment) of truth. This pairing underscores the comprehensive nature of biblical wisdom, which integrates intellectual understanding with practical, actionable guidance for living a righteous and flourishing life in all its dimensions.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 22:20 primarily employs a **Rhetorical Question**. By framing the statement as "Have not I written to thee excellent things...?", the wise teacher is not seeking information but is making a forceful affirmation. This device serves to underscore the undeniable truth and established authority of the wisdom already imparted. It compels the listener or reader to acknowledge the profound value of the instruction, thereby enhancing its persuasive power and implicitly calling for compliance and diligent application. The verse also utilizes **Merism** or **Hendiatris** in the phrase "counsels and knowledge." While not a perfect merism, the pairing of these two related concepts ("counsels" representing practical guidance and "knowledge" representing intellectual understanding) works together to convey the comprehensive nature of wisdom. It suggests that the "excellent things" encompass both the theoretical insight and the practical application necessary for a complete and effective understanding of truth.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 22:20, by asserting the authoritative and excellent nature of written wisdom, resonates deeply with the broader biblical understanding of God's revealed Word. It underscores the divine origin and inherent value of Scripture as the ultimate source of truth, counsel, and knowledge for humanity. This verse implicitly points to the inspiration of Scripture, suggesting that the "excellent things" written are not merely human insights but carry a divine imprimatur, designed to guide and transform. It calls believers to approach the Bible not as a collection of human opinions, but as God's authoritative and living word, indispensable for navigating life's complexities and walking in righteousness. The wisdom teacher's assertion mirrors God's own consistent act of revealing His will and wisdom through written revelation.

* [Psalm 19:7-8](/psalms/19-7-8 "Psalm 19:7-8 - The Perfection of God's Law")
* [2 Timothy 3:16-17](/2_timothy/3-16-17 "2 Timothy 3:16-17 - All Scripture is God-breathed")
* [Deuteronomy 6:6-7](/deuteronomy/6-6-7 "Deuteronomy 6:6-7 - Teach Your Children God's Commands")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 22:20 serves as a powerful and timeless reminder for every believer regarding the enduring and unparalleled value of God's written Word. In a world saturated with information, opinions, and fleeting trends, this verse redirects our gaze to the Scriptures as the ultimate repository of "excellent things"—true counsel and profound knowledge. It challenges us to move beyond superficial engagement with the Bible, urging us instead to approach it with reverence, diligence, and a deep desire for understanding and application. Just as the ancient student was expected to internalize and live out the wisdom imparted, we are called to not merely read the Bible, but to meditate on its truths, allow it to shape our worldview, inform our decisions, and transform our character. This verse invites us to trust in the divine authorship behind the human words, recognizing that in its pages, we encounter the very wisdom of God, perfectly suited to guide us through every season of life and equip us for every good work.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does my current engagement with Scripture reflect a belief that it contains "excellent things in counsels and knowledge"?**
* **In what specific areas of my life do I most need the "counsels and knowledge" found in God's Word?**
* **What practical steps can I take to deepen my understanding and application of biblical wisdom in my daily decisions?**
* **How does the rhetorical question of this verse challenge my tendency to seek wisdom from worldly sources over divine revelation?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the "excellent things" mentioned in Proverbs 22:20?**

Answer: The phrase "excellent things" (Hebrew: *shâlîysh*) refers to the superior quality and profound importance of the wisdom that has been written. While the Hebrew word literally relates to "three" (e.g., a triple measure, a third-rank officer), in this context, it signifies that the instructions are not trivial but are weighty, foundational, and of the highest caliber. It emphasizes the authoritative and invaluable nature of the "counsels and knowledge" being imparted, urging the reader to recognize their supreme worth and give them serious attention. It underscores that the wisdom found in Proverbs is not merely human advice but divinely inspired truth, as affirmed elsewhere in Scripture (e.g., [2 Timothy 3:16](/2_timothy/3-16 "2 Timothy 3:16 - All Scripture is God-breathed")), making it indispensable for life.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Proverbs 22:20 directly speaks to the authority and excellence of written wisdom, its ultimate fulfillment and most profound meaning are found in Jesus Christ. He is the embodiment of all "excellent things," the very [Wisdom of God](/1_corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ the Power and Wisdom of God") personified. The "counsels and knowledge" written in Proverbs find their perfect expression and ultimate purpose in Him, for [in Him are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - In Christ are all treasures of wisdom and knowledge"). The Old Testament wisdom literature, including Proverbs, continually points to the need for divine guidance and understanding, a need fully met in Christ, who is our [righteousness, sanctification, and redemption](/1_corinthians/1-30 "1 Corinthians 1:30 - Christ is our Wisdom"). The written word prepares the heart for the living Word, Jesus, who not only perfectly exemplified God's wisdom but also fully revealed God's saving plan, offering true life and eternal counsel to all who believe. His teachings, recorded in the Gospels, are the supreme "excellent things," providing the ultimate "counsels and knowledge" for eternal life and godly living, far surpassing any earthly wisdom (see [Matthew 7:24-27](/matthew/7-24-27 "Matthew 7:24-27 - The Wise and Foolish Builders")).

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 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

¶ 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.