Proverbs 30:1

¶ The words of Agur the son of Jakeh, [even] the prophecy: the man spake unto Ithiel, even unto Ithiel and Ucal,

The words {H1697} of Agur {H94} the son {H1121} of Jakeh {H3348}, even the prophecy {H4853}: the man {H1397} spake {H5002} unto Ithiel {H384}, even unto Ithiel {H384} and Ucal {H401},

The words of Agur the son of Yakeh, the prophecy. The man says to Iti'el, to Iti'el and Ukhal:

These are the words of Agur son of Jakeh—the burden that this man declared to Ithiel: “I am weary, O God, and worn out.

The words of Agur the son of Jakeh; the oracle. The man saith unto Ithiel, unto Ithiel and Ucal:

Proverbs 30:1 introduces a distinct section of the book of Proverbs, shifting from the primary authorship of King Solomon to the words of a new figure: Agur the son of Jakeh. This verse serves as a heading for the wisdom and insights that follow in the rest of the chapter.

Context

While much of the book of Proverbs is attributed to King Solomon, chapters 30 and 31 present collections from other wise individuals. Agur, son of Jakeh, is an otherwise unknown figure in biblical history. His identity, origin, and the exact time he lived are not specified, making his contribution unique and somewhat mysterious. The mention of "the prophecy" (KJV) or "the oracle" (Hebrew: massa') suggests a weighty, divinely inspired utterance, elevating these sayings beyond mere human observation to a revelation of truth. The words are specifically directed to two individuals, Ithiel and Ucal, who were likely disciples or recipients of Agur's instruction, indicating a personal transmission of wisdom.

Key Themes

  • Diverse Sources of Wisdom: This verse highlights that God's wisdom is not confined to one individual or king, but can be revealed through various vessels, even those not widely known. It broadens the scope of divine inspiration within Israel's wisdom tradition.
  • Divine Authority of Scripture: The term "prophecy" (massa') underscores that Agur's words carry divine weight and authority, similar to prophetic pronouncements found elsewhere in the Old Testament. This reinforces the idea that all Scripture is God-breathed (2 Timothy 3:16).
  • Instruction and Discipleship: The explicit mention of Ithiel and Ucal as recipients shows the importance of transmitting wisdom directly and personally, a common theme throughout Proverbs where wisdom is often presented as instruction from a father to a son (Proverbs 4:1).

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "prophecy" here is massa' (מַשָּׂא), which literally means "burden" or "load." In a prophetic context, it often refers to a solemn, weighty utterance or oracle, especially one containing divine judgment or revelation. This usage emphasizes the seriousness and divine origin of Agur's message. The name Agur (אָגוּר) means "gathered" or "collector," which could imply he was a collector of wisdom sayings, or perhaps that he was "gathered" into God's service to deliver this message.

Reflection and Application

Proverbs 30:1 reminds us that God speaks through many voices and in various ways. Even if the messenger is obscure, the message, if divinely inspired, carries profound importance. For us, this verse encourages us to value all parts of the biblical canon, recognizing that every word is profitable for instruction. It also highlights the relational aspect of learning and growth in wisdom, often facilitated through personal mentorship and the careful reception of truth from those who have gathered it.

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 31:1

    ¶ The words of king Lemuel, the prophecy that his mother taught him.

  • 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.

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