Proverbs 22:21

That I might make thee know the certainty of the words of truth; that thou mightest answer the words of truth to them that send unto thee?

That I might make thee know {H3045} the certainty {H7189} of the words {H561} of truth {H571}; that thou mightest answer {H7725} the words {H561} of truth {H571} to them that send {H7971} unto thee?

so you will know that these sayings are certainly true and bring back true sayings to him who sent you.

to show you true and reliable words, that you may soundly answer those who sent you?

To make thee know the certainty of the words of truth, That thou mayest carry back words of truth to them that send thee?

Commentary

Proverbs 22:21 emphasizes the profound purpose of receiving and applying divine wisdom: to establish an unshakeable confidence in truth and to equip one to articulate it effectively to others. This verse serves as a foundational statement for the collection of "words of the wise" that follow in Proverbs, highlighting the practical outcome of true understanding.

Context

This verse is found within a section of Proverbs (chapters 22-24) often referred to as "the words of the wise," a distinct collection of thirty sayings that follow the primary Solomonic proverbs. It acts as an introduction to this particular section, similar to how Proverbs 1:1-7 introduces the entire book. The author, likely a sage instructing a student, states his intent: to impart wisdom that is both reliable and practical, enabling the student to navigate life with integrity and offer sound counsel.

Key Themes

  • The Certainty of Truth: The primary goal of this instruction is to ensure the recipient possesses a firm grasp of truth. The Hebrew word for "certainty," qoshet, conveys reliability, straightness, and accuracy. This isn't about mere intellectual assent but a deep conviction in the reality and trustworthiness of God's revealed principles.
  • Equipping for Effective Communication: The knowledge of truth is not for personal retention alone. The verse highlights the practical outcome: the ability to "answer the words of truth." This implies being prepared to offer wise counsel, give an account of one's beliefs, or provide discerning replies to those who seek guidance or challenge. It speaks to the importance of speaking a word in due season.
  • Responsibility in Counsel: The phrase "to them that send unto thee" suggests a scenario where people come seeking advice or judgment. The wise person is expected to provide answers grounded in truth, demonstrating integrity and competence. This underscores the moral obligation associated with possessing wisdom and the value of sound biblical counsel.

Linguistic Insights

The term for "certainty" in Hebrew, qoshet (קֹשׁ֢ט), refers to truth, reliability, or straightness. It suggests something that is firm and unyielding, providing a stable foundation for understanding and action. The verb "answer" (Hebrew: shuv, שׁוּב) literally means "to return" or "to reply," emphasizing the active nature of responding with truth when called upon. This isn't passive knowledge but an active, responsive wisdom.

Practical Application

For believers today, Proverbs 22:21 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of grounding our lives in God's unchanging truth. It encourages us to:

  • Seek Deep Understanding: Don't settle for superficial knowledge of Scripture. Strive for a deep, confident conviction in God's Word, knowing its reliability and power to transform lives.
  • Be Prepared to Speak Truth: Whether in casual conversation, giving advice, or sharing our faith, we are called to articulate truth with clarity and conviction. This echoes the New Testament call to be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you.
  • Exercise Discernment in Counsel: When others seek our advice, we have a responsibility to offer counsel that aligns with biblical truth, not personal opinion or worldly wisdom. This requires not only knowledge but also wisdom from above.

Ultimately, this verse challenges us to internalize truth so thoroughly that it becomes the wellspring from which all our words and counsel flow, providing reliable guidance to ourselves and others in a world often confused by conflicting messages.

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

  • 1 Peter 3:15

    But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and [be] ready always to [give] an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:

  • Luke 1:3

    It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus,

  • Luke 1:4

    That thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed.

  • John 20:31

    But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.

  • 1 John 5:13

    These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.
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