Proverbs 3:14

For the merchandise of it [is] better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold.

For the merchandise {H5504} of it is better {H2896} than the merchandise {H5505} of silver {H3701}, and the gain {H8393} thereof than fine gold {H2742}.

for her profit exceeds that of silver, gaining her is better than gold,

for she is more profitable than silver, and her gain is better than fine gold.

For the gaining of it is better than the gaining of silver, And the profit thereof than fine gold.

Proverbs 3:14 extols the incomparable value of wisdom, asserting its superiority over even the most precious earthly commodities: silver and fine gold. This verse continues the thought from Proverbs 3:13, where the 'it' directly refers to the blessing of finding wisdom and understanding.

Context

The book of Proverbs, primarily attributed to King Solomon, is a collection of divine wisdom intended to guide individuals in living a life that honors God and yields true prosperity. Throughout the early chapters, Solomon repeatedly emphasizes the supreme importance of acquiring wisdom, personifying it as a valuable guide and protector. This verse is part of a larger section (Proverbs 3:1-12) that outlines the blessings of trusting in the Lord and living according to His precepts, contrasting spiritual riches with material wealth.

Key Themes

  • The Superiority of Wisdom: The central message is that wisdom is more valuable than any material possession. While silver and gold represent ultimate earthly wealth and security, the "merchandise" and "gain" of wisdom offer far greater and more enduring benefits. This suggests that true wealth is found not in what one accumulates, but in the understanding and discernment that guides one's life.
  • Enduring Value: Unlike physical assets that can diminish, be stolen, or decay, wisdom is an eternal investment. It provides guidance, protection, and true satisfaction that no amount of money can buy, leading to a life of lasting happiness and fulfillment.
  • Divine Priority: The verse implicitly encourages a reordering of priorities, placing the pursuit of spiritual and practical wisdom above the relentless quest for material riches. This aligns with other biblical teachings that counsel against idolizing wealth (Matthew 6:19-21).

Linguistic Insights

The KJV uses "merchandise" and "gain" to describe the benefits derived from wisdom. The Hebrew word for "merchandise" here is sachar (סַחַר), which refers to profit, trade, or gain from commerce. "Gain" is from tevu'ah (תְּבוּאָה), meaning produce, yield, or income, often from agriculture. Both terms highlight the tangible, beneficial outcomes of acquiring wisdom. The phrase "fine gold" translates from the Hebrew paz (פָּז), which denotes pure, refined, or solid gold, signifying the highest standard of earthly value. By comparing wisdom to these highly prized metals and declaring its superiority, the verse powerfully underscores its ultimate worth.

Practical Application

Proverbs 3:14 challenges us to consider what we truly value and invest our lives in. In a world often driven by the pursuit of wealth and material success, this verse reminds us that genuine prosperity comes from seeking and applying God's wisdom. This means prioritizing spiritual growth, learning from His Word, and applying biblical principles to our daily decisions. When we diligently seek wisdom from God, we gain a treasure that far surpasses any earthly fortune, leading to a life rich in purpose, peace, and lasting joy.

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 16:16

    ¶ How much better [is it] to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!

  • Proverbs 8:19

    My fruit [is] better than gold, yea, than fine gold; and my revenue than choice silver.

  • Job 28:13

    Man knoweth not the price thereof; neither is it found in the land of the living.

  • Job 28:19

    The topaz of Ethiopia shall not equal it, neither shall it be valued with pure gold.

  • Matthew 16:26

    For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?

  • Proverbs 8:10

    Receive my instruction, and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold.

  • Proverbs 8:11

    For wisdom [is] better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it.

Add TrulyRandomVerse to your Home Screen for quick access!

← Back