Proverbs 30:1

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

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},

Complete Jewish Bible

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

Berean Standard Bible

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.

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 30:1 serves as a distinct superscription, introducing the "words of Agur the son of Jakeh," a collection of wisdom and prophetic insights that comprise the thirtieth chapter of the book of Proverbs. This verse identifies the human author of the subsequent oracle and specifies the recipients of his instruction, Ithiel and Ucal, thereby setting the stage for a unique segment within the broader Solomonic wisdom tradition.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 30:1 marks a clear break in the authorship of the book of Proverbs. Chapters 1-29 are largely attributed to King Solomon, with specific sections like "The Proverbs of Solomon" (e.g., [Proverbs 1:1](/proverbs/1-1 "Proverbs 1:1 - The Proverbs of Solomon")) and "These also are proverbs of Solomon, which the men of Hezekiah king of Judah copied out" ([Proverbs 25:1](/proverbs/25-1 "Proverbs 25:1 - Hezekiah's Collection")). However, chapter 30 explicitly introduces Agur, son of Jakeh, as the author, and chapter 31 introduces "The words of King Lemuel" ([Proverbs 31:1](/proverbs/31-1 "Proverbs 31:1 - The Words of King Lemuel")). This verse functions as a heading, signaling to the reader that a new voice and a distinct collection of wisdom are about to be presented, shifting the focus from royal Solomonic wisdom to insights from other inspired sages.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Agur, Jakeh, Ithiel, and Ucal are figures otherwise unknown in the biblical record, making their precise historical context difficult to pinpoint. Unlike Solomon, whose reign and wisdom are extensively documented, these individuals lack specific biographical details. The mention of "prophecy" (Hebrew: *massa'*) suggests a divinely inspired utterance, aligning with the broader prophetic tradition in ancient Israel where God's truth was revealed through various individuals. The practice of transmitting wisdom from a sage to disciples, as implied by the address to Ithiel and Ucal, was a common pedagogical method in the ancient Near East, reflecting the master-disciple relationship prevalent in wisdom schools and families. This verse underscores that wisdom literature in Israel was not monolithic but comprised contributions from various inspired sources, reflecting a rich and diverse intellectual and spiritual heritage.
* **Key Themes:** This introductory verse contributes to several key themes found throughout Proverbs and the broader wisdom literature. Firstly, it highlights the **diverse sources of divine wisdom**, demonstrating that God's truth is not limited to a single author or royal lineage but can be revealed through various individuals, even those not widely known, as seen in the broader collection of wisdom in [Proverbs](/proverbs/1 "The Book of Proverbs"). Secondly, the term "prophecy" emphasizes the **divine authority and inspiration** of the words that follow, elevating Agur's sayings beyond mere human observation to a revelation of truth, much like the inspired nature of all Scripture described in [2 Timothy 3:16](/2_timothy/3-16 "2 Timothy 3:16 - All Scripture is God-breathed"). Lastly, the specific address to Ithiel and Ucal underscores the theme of **instruction and discipleship**, a foundational aspect of the wisdom tradition where knowledge is intentionally transmitted from a teacher to a student, echoing the recurring motif of a father instructing his son found throughout the book, as exemplified in [Proverbs 4:1](/proverbs/4-1 "Proverbs 4:1 - Hear, My Children, the Instruction of a Father").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **words (Hebrew, _dâbâr'_):** From H1697, this term signifies "a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing." In this context, it refers to the specific utterances, sayings, or maxims that follow in Proverbs 30. It emphasizes that what is about to be read is not a random collection but a deliberate, articulated body of thought and instruction, carrying the weight of its author's wisdom and, as qualified by "prophecy," divine origin.
* **prophecy (Hebrew, _massâʼ'_):** From H4853, this word literally means "a burden" or "load," but figuratively, it refers to "an utterance, chiefly a doom, especially singing." In a prophetic context, it denotes a solemn, weighty oracle or pronouncement, often divinely inspired and carrying significant authority. Its inclusion here elevates Agur's words beyond mere human wisdom, indicating they are a serious, divinely given message, a "burden" of truth that must be delivered and received with gravity.
* **man (Hebrew, _geber'_):** From H1397, this term properly means "a valiant man or warrior," but generally, "a person simply." While it can refer to a generic individual, its root often implies strength, valor, or distinction. Applying it to Agur suggests he was not just any person, but perhaps a man of substance, wisdom, or spiritual fortitude, whose words carried significant weight and authority, consistent with the "prophecy" he delivers.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The words of Agur the son of Jakeh,"**: This clause functions as the primary attribution, clearly identifying the author of the subsequent wisdom collection. It follows a common ancient Near Eastern literary convention for superscriptions, immediately informing the reader of the source of the material. The lineage "son of Jakeh" further specifies Agur's identity, even if Jakeh remains otherwise unknown.
* **"[even] the prophecy:"**: This parenthetical or appositional phrase clarifies the nature of Agur's words. The term "prophecy" (or "oracle" in some translations) signifies that these are not merely human insights but divinely inspired utterances, carrying the weight and authority of a divine communication. It sets the tone for the spiritual depth and authoritative nature of the chapter.
* **"the man spake unto Ithiel, even unto Ithiel and Ucal,"**: This final clause identifies the specific recipients of Agur's message. The repetition of "Ithiel" emphasizes the directness and perhaps the personal significance of the instruction to him, while the inclusion of "Ucal" indicates that the wisdom was intended for at least two specific individuals. This highlights the pedagogical and relational aspect of wisdom transmission, suggesting a master-discipleship dynamic.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 30:1 primarily employs **Superscription** as its main literary device, serving as a clear heading that introduces the author and the nature of the following text. This is a common feature in ancient literature, providing immediate context and attribution. The verse also utilizes **Apposition** by clarifying "the words of Agur" with "even the prophecy," which redefines or elaborates on the nature of these words, elevating them to a divinely inspired oracle. Furthermore, the **Repetition** of "Ithiel, even unto Ithiel" serves to emphasize the specific and direct address to this individual, potentially highlighting the personal and intentional transmission of wisdom to a close disciple, while also including Ucal. This repetition draws attention to the recipients and the intimate setting of the instruction.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 30:1, by introducing Agur's "prophecy," underscores the multifaceted nature of divine revelation and the diverse channels through which God communicates His wisdom. It affirms that truth is not confined to a single source or a well-known figure, but can emerge from unexpected places and individuals, all under the overarching inspiration of the Holy Spirit. This aligns with the broader biblical principle that God uses various vessels to convey His message, ensuring that His wisdom is accessible and authoritative, regardless of the human instrument. The designation of Agur's words as a "prophecy" elevates them to the realm of divine utterance, reinforcing the inerrancy and authority of all Scripture.

* [Numbers 12:6](/numbers/12-6 "Numbers 12:6 - God Speaks Through Prophets")
* [Hebrews 1:1](/hebrews/1-1 "Hebrews 1:1 - God's Revelation Through the Son")
* [2 Peter 1:21](/2_peter/1-21 "2 Peter 1:21 - Prophecy Carried by the Holy Spirit")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 30:1 invites us to approach all Scripture with an open heart, recognizing that divine wisdom can come from various sources and through diverse voices, even those seemingly obscure. It challenges us to look beyond the messenger's renown and focus on the message's divine origin and inherent truth. This verse encourages a posture of humility and receptivity, reminding us that God's truth is not limited by human expectations or fame. In our own lives, it highlights the importance of both seeking out wise instruction and being willing to share the wisdom we have gathered, whether through formal teaching or personal discipleship, just as Agur spoke to Ithiel and Ucal. It also prompts us to consider the weighty "burden" of truth we carry and how we transmit it to others, ensuring that our words are rooted in divine wisdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the introduction of Agur, an otherwise unknown figure, challenge my assumptions about who God uses to speak His truth?**
* **In what ways do I tend to prioritize the messenger over the message, and how can I cultivate a greater appreciation for the divine origin of all biblical wisdom?**
* **Who are the "Ithiels and Ucals" in my life—those to whom I am called to impart wisdom, and how can I do so more intentionally?**
* **Considering Agur's words are called a "prophecy," what responsibility do I have in receiving and applying divinely inspired truth in my daily life?**

### FAQ
**Who are Agur, Jakeh, Ithiel, and Ucal, and why are they mentioned here?**

Answer: Agur, Jakeh, Ithiel, and Ucal are individuals mentioned only in this verse within the biblical text, making their specific identities and historical contexts largely unknown. Agur is identified as the author of the wisdom and prophetic oracle that follows in Proverbs 30. Jakeh is Agur's father, providing his lineage. Ithiel and Ucal are the recipients of Agur's words, likely his disciples or close associates to whom he imparted his wisdom. Their mention serves primarily to attribute the following text and indicate its intended audience, highlighting the personal transmission of wisdom within the ancient Israelite tradition, similar to the father-to-son instruction seen elsewhere in [Proverbs](/proverbs/1 "The Book of Proverbs").

**What is the significance of the word "prophecy" (KJV) or "oracle" in this verse?**

Answer: The Hebrew word translated as "prophecy" (H4853, *massâʼ*) literally means "burden" or "load." In a prophetic context, it refers to a solemn, weighty utterance or oracle, often signifying a divine message, judgment, or revelation. Its use here signifies that Agur's words are not merely human observations or philosophical musings, but are divinely inspired and carry the authority and seriousness of a message from God. This elevates the nature of the wisdom that follows, placing it in the same category of divinely authoritative pronouncements found throughout the Old Testament, such as the "burdens" or "oracles" against nations in [Isaiah 13:1](/isaiah/13-1 "Isaiah 13:1 - The Burden Against Babylon").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 30:1, while introducing an obscure human author, points to the ultimate source and embodiment of all wisdom and prophecy in Jesus Christ. Agur's "words" and "prophecy" foreshadow the perfect and final revelation of God in His Son, who is Himself the [Word made flesh](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh"), the [wisdom of God personified](/1_corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ the Power and Wisdom of God"). Just as Agur, "the man," delivered a divine oracle, Jesus is the [true Man](/1_timothy/2-5 "1 Timothy 2:5 - One Mediator, the Man Christ Jesus") who perfectly spoke the words of God, declaring, "[I do nothing on my own authority, but speak just as the Father taught me](/john/8-28 "John 8:28 - Jesus Speaks as the Father Taught Him")". The transmission of wisdom from Agur to Ithiel and Ucal finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ, the supreme Teacher, who meticulously discipled His followers, imparting to them the [words of eternal life](/john/6-68 "John 6:68 - Words of Eternal Life"). Every inspired utterance, every prophetic burden, ultimately finds its meaning and climax in the person and work of Christ, who is the [Alpha and the Omega](/revelation/22-13 "Revelation 22:13 - The Alpha and the Omega") of God's redemptive revelation.

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 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.