Proverbs 24:14

So [shall] the knowledge of wisdom [be] unto thy soul: when thou hast found [it], then there shall be a reward, and thy expectation shall not be cut off.

So shall the knowledge {H3045} of wisdom {H2451} be unto thy soul {H5315}: when thou hast found {H4672} it, then there shall be {H3426} a reward {H319}, and thy expectation {H8615} shall not be cut off {H3772}.

Know that wisdom is similar[ly sweet] to your soul; if you find it, then you will have a future, what you hope for will not be cut off.

Know therefore that wisdom is sweet to your soul. If you find it, there is a future for you, and your hope will never be cut off.

So shalt thou know wisdom to be unto thy soul; If thou hast found it, then shall there be a reward, And thy hope shall not be cut off.

Proverbs 24:14 underscores the profound and lasting benefits of acquiring true wisdom. This verse promises not only a tangible reward but also an assured future for those who diligently pursue and embrace the knowledge of wisdom.

Context

This proverb is situated within a collection of wise sayings that encourage righteous living, ethical conduct, and discernment. The preceding verses in Proverbs 24 caution against envying evil men and advocate for the pursuit of justice and understanding. Verse 14 serves as a powerful incentive, framing wisdom as the ultimate treasure whose acquisition guarantees a positive outcome, contrasting with the fleeting successes of the wicked. The book of Proverbs consistently emphasizes that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, presenting it as divine insight for practical living.

Key Themes

  • The Inestimable Value of Wisdom: The verse elevates wisdom to a foundational element for the soul, suggesting it's not merely intellectual knowledge but a transformative force that shapes one's inner being and perspective. It implies an active search, for wisdom must be "found," indicating it requires effort and intentionality.
  • Guaranteed Reward for its Pursuit: A clear promise is made that finding wisdom leads to a definite "reward." This isn't just an immediate benefit but a lasting positive outcome, a recurring motif throughout Proverbs where wisdom is personified as bestowing blessings and prosperity upon its followers (e.g., Proverbs 3:16).
  • Unfailing Hope and Expectation: The assurance that "thy expectation shall not be cut off" is a powerful declaration of security and fulfillment. Unlike worldly hopes that can be dashed, the hope rooted in divine wisdom is steadfast. This echoes the concept of a hope that does not disappoint in the New Testament, providing a stable foundation for one's future.

Linguistic Insights

  • The phrase "knowledge of wisdom" translates from the Hebrew da'at chokhmah (דַּעַת חָכְמָה). Chokhmah often signifies practical skill, discernment, and moral insight, while da'at emphasizes intimate, experiential knowledge rather than mere intellectual acquaintance. Thus, it refers to a deep, transformative understanding of how to live righteously.
  • The "reward" mentioned is from the Hebrew word acharit (אַחֲרִית), which literally means "latter end" or "outcome." This suggests a long-term, ultimate benefit or consequence, reinforcing the idea that the blessings of wisdom are enduring and culminate in a favorable destiny.
  • "Expectation" comes from tikvah (תִּקְוָה), meaning "hope" or "cord." It speaks to a strong, confident anticipation of a positive future. The promise that it "shall not be cut off" (לֹא תִכָּרֵת - lo tikaret) signifies that this hope will not be severed, disappointed, or come to an end, ensuring ultimate satisfaction.

Practical Application

Proverbs 24:14 serves as a timeless encouragement to prioritize the pursuit of wisdom. In a world often driven by immediate gratification and fleeting desires, this verse reminds us that investing in godly wisdom yields eternal dividends. It calls us to seek understanding from God's Word, to apply its principles in our daily lives, and to trust that such a foundation will lead to genuine fulfillment and a secure future. For those who diligently seek it, the wisdom offered by God transforms the soul, assures a blessed outcome, and establishes a hope that will never be disappointed, even amidst life's challenges. It's a profound invitation to embrace a path that promises lasting joy and purpose, much like the call to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.

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 23:18

    For surely there is an end; and thine expectation shall not be cut off.

  • Proverbs 2:10

    ¶ When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul;

  • James 1:25

    But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth [therein], he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.

  • Jeremiah 15:16

    Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts.

  • Psalms 119:103

    ¶ How sweet are thy words unto my taste! [yea, sweeter] than honey to my mouth!

  • Psalms 19:10

    More to be desired [are they] than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.

  • Psalms 19:11

    Moreover by them is thy servant warned: [and] in keeping of them [there is] great reward.

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