Proverbs 30:3

KJV

I neither learned wisdom, nor have the knowledge of the holy.

KJV (with Strong's)

I neither learned {H3925} wisdom {H2451}, nor have {H3045} the knowledge {H1847} of the holy {H6918}.

Complete Jewish Bible

I have not learned enough wisdom to know the Holy One.

Berean Standard Bible

I have not learned wisdom, and I have no knowledge of the Holy One.

American Standard Version

And I have not learned wisdom, Neither have I the knowledge of the Holy One.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 30:3, a deeply humble confession from Agur, the son of Jakeh, declares his personal lack of inherent wisdom and direct knowledge of the divine. This verse serves as a crucial preamble to the profound insights that follow in his oracles, establishing a foundational premise that true wisdom and understanding do not originate from human intellectual prowess or self-effort, but rather from a source beyond human attainment, implicitly pointing to God Himself. It underscores the finite nature of human understanding and the necessity of divine revelation for grasping spiritual truths.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 30:3 is an integral part of "The words of Agur the son of Jakeh," a distinct collection of sayings within the broader Book of Proverbs, introduced in [Proverbs 30:1](/proverbs/30-1 "Proverbs 30:1 - The Words of Agur"). Unlike many of Solomon's proverbs, Agur's section often begins with personal confessions and rhetorical questions, setting a unique tone. Immediately preceding this verse, [Proverbs 30:2](/proverbs/30-2 "Proverbs 30:2 - Agur's Self-Assessment") presents Agur's radical self-abasement, where he declares himself "more brutish than any man, and have not the understanding of a man." Verse 3 continues this theme of intellectual and spiritual inadequacy, serving as a further explanation and deepening of his prior confession. This profound humility prepares the reader for the subsequent theological inquiries and insights, suggesting that the wisdom Agur *does* possess (and will share) is not his own, but divinely imparted.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, wisdom was highly valued, often seen as a gift from God and a practical skill for navigating life. Sages and wise men were respected figures, and the pursuit of knowledge was a significant endeavor, as evidenced throughout the wisdom literature. However, there was also a strong understanding that ultimate wisdom transcended human capacity, originating with the Creator. The concept of "knowledge of the holy" (or "holy ones") would have resonated deeply within a culture where the divine was perceived as utterly distinct and transcendent. Agur's statement, therefore, stands in stark contrast to any humanistic claims of self-sufficiency in wisdom, aligning instead with the broader biblical emphasis on God as the sole source of true understanding, as seen in [Job 28](/job/28 "Job 28 - Where Can Wisdom Be Found?"). It reflects a theological humility that was foundational to a right relationship with Yahweh.
* **Key Themes:** Agur's confession in [Proverbs 30:3](/proverbs/30-3 "Proverbs 30:3 - Agur's Lack of Wisdom") contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Proverbs. Firstly, it powerfully reinforces the theme of **Profound Humility**, establishing that a recognition of one's own intellectual and spiritual limitations is the prerequisite for receiving genuine wisdom. This echoes the sentiment found in [Proverbs 11:2](/proverbs/11-2 "Proverbs 11:2 - Humility and Wisdom"). Secondly, it highlights **The Source of True Knowledge**, implicitly pointing to God as the ultimate wellspring of wisdom. By stating what he *lacks*, Agur directs attention to where such wisdom *can* be found – not through human effort alone, but through divine revelation and relationship, as explicitly stated in [Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the LORD is the Beginning of Knowledge") and [Proverbs 9:10](/proverbs/9-10 "Proverbs 9:10 - The Knowledge of the Holy"). Lastly, the verse underscores **Human Limitations**, reminding humanity of its finite capacity to grasp spiritual realities without divine illumination, a theme pervasive throughout the wisdom literature and prophetic books.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **learned (Hebrew, _lâmad'_):** From H3925, this primitive root properly means "to goad," but by implication, "to teach." It signifies the process of acquiring knowledge or skill through instruction or discipline. Agur's use of this word emphasizes that his lack of wisdom is not merely a passive state but an active confession that he has not *acquired* it through traditional means of learning or training.
* **wisdom (Hebrew, _chokmâh'_):** From H2451, this term refers to wisdom in a good sense, encompassing skill, insight, and practical discernment. It denotes the ability to apply knowledge effectively and live skillfully according to divine principles. Agur's denial of having "wisdom" is a denial of possessing this comprehensive, God-given insight.
* **holy (Hebrew, _qâdôwsh'_):** From H6918, this word means "sacred" (ceremonially or morally). As a noun, it can refer to God (by eminence), an angel, or a saint. In the context of "knowledge of the holy," especially in wisdom literature, it most powerfully refers to the knowledge of God Himself, His nature, His ways, and His divine attributes. Agur is confessing a lack of intimate, experiential knowledge of the divine.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"I neither learned wisdom":** Agur declares that he has not acquired wisdom through human instruction, study, or personal effort. This is a profound statement of intellectual humility, suggesting that the wisdom he speaks of is not a product of his own schooling or inherent genius. It sets the stage for the idea that true wisdom comes from a source beyond human attainment.
* **"nor have the knowledge of the holy":** This clause deepens the confession, moving beyond intellectual acquisition to experiential knowledge of the divine. "The holy" (Hebrew: *qâdôwsh*) here most likely refers to God Himself or divine things. Agur is admitting that he lacks an intimate, experiential understanding of God's nature, His character, or His sacred truths. This is not merely an absence of facts, but a lack of profound, transformative insight into the divine realm.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Confession** and **Apophatic Statement**. Agur's declaration is a direct, personal **Confession** of his perceived intellectual and spiritual inadequacy. This is not a boast but a humble admission, setting a tone of dependence rather than self-sufficiency. Furthermore, the verse functions as an **Apophatic Statement**, defining Agur's state by what he *lacks* rather than what he possesses. By stating "I neither learned wisdom, nor have the knowledge of the holy," he indirectly points to the nature of true wisdom and knowledge as something *external* to himself, something that must be received rather than self-generated. This literary technique emphasizes the transcendence of divine wisdom and the inherent limitations of human understanding.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 30:3 stands as a powerful testament to the biblical understanding that genuine wisdom and knowledge of ultimate reality do not originate from human intellect or effort alone. Agur's confession aligns perfectly with the overarching message of the wisdom literature: true wisdom is a divine gift, rooted in a right relationship with God. It underscores the concept that without divine revelation, humanity remains limited in its capacity to grasp the deepest spiritual truths. This humility is not a sign of weakness but the very foundation upon which God imparts His profound insights, making it clear that all true understanding flows from Him.

* [Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the LORD is the Beginning of Knowledge")
* [Proverbs 9:10](/proverbs/9-10 "Proverbs 9:10 - The Knowledge of the Holy is Understanding")
* [James 1:5](/james/1-5 "James 1:5 - Asking God for Wisdom")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Agur's humble confession in Proverbs 30:3 offers a timeless and profound lesson for every seeker of truth and understanding. In a world that often exalts human intelligence and self-sufficiency, this verse calls us to a radical humility, recognizing that our intellectual capacities, however great, are ultimately finite when it comes to grasping divine realities. It reminds us that true wisdom is not something we can simply acquire through diligent study or innate brilliance alone, but something that must be received as a gift from God. This prompts us to cultivate a posture of dependence, actively seeking God's wisdom through prayer, diligent study of His Word, and a willingness to be taught by His Spirit. It challenges us to move beyond mere academic knowledge to a transformative, experiential "knowledge of the holy," which is a deep, personal acquaintance with God Himself. This humility opens the door for God to impart insights that far surpass anything we could discover on our own.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life do I tend to rely on my own understanding rather than seeking divine wisdom?**
* **How does Agur's confession challenge my perception of what it means to be truly "wise"?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate a deeper "knowledge of the holy" in my daily life?**
* **How does acknowledging my intellectual and spiritual limitations open me up to receive more from God?**

### FAQ
**Question?** What does "knowledge of the holy" specifically mean in this context?

Answer: In Proverbs 30:3, "knowledge of the holy" (Hebrew: *daʻath qâdôwsh*) refers primarily to an intimate, experiential understanding of God Himself and His sacred nature. While "holy ones" could sometimes refer to angels or saints, in the context of wisdom literature, especially when paired with "wisdom" and "understanding" (as in [Proverbs 9:10](/proverbs/9-10 "Proverbs 9:10 - The Knowledge of the Holy is Understanding")), it is best understood as knowledge of the divine, the sacred character and ways of God. Agur is confessing a lack of direct, profound insight into the ultimate source of all truth and wisdom, which is God. It's not merely intellectual information *about* God, but a deep, relational knowing *of* God.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 30:3, with Agur's humble confession of lacking wisdom and knowledge of the holy, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Old Testament consistently points to wisdom originating from God, and the New Testament reveals that Jesus is the very embodiment of this divine wisdom. [Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - In Christ are Hidden All Treasures of Wisdom and Knowledge") declares that "in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge." Agur's acknowledgment of his own inadequacy foreshadows the truth that humanity cannot attain true wisdom or knowledge of God through its own efforts. Instead, it must be revealed. Jesus, as the [Word made flesh](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh"), is the perfect revelation of the Father, for [John 1:18](/john/1-18 "John 1:18 - No One Has Seen God") states, "No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him." Therefore, what Agur confessed he lacked—wisdom and knowledge of the holy—is precisely what is fully and perfectly found in Christ. He is not only the source of wisdom but [1 Corinthians 1:30](/1_corinthians/1-30 "1 Corinthians 1:30 - Christ Our Wisdom") proclaims that God "is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption." Through faith in Him, we gain access to the very wisdom and knowledge of God that Agur yearned for, as Jesus Himself is the [way, the truth, and the life](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life") leading to the Father.

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 9:10

The fear of the LORD [is] the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy [is] understanding.

Romans 11:33

¶ O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable [are] his judgments, and his ways past finding out!

Ephesians 3:18

May be able to comprehend with all saints what [is] the breadth, and length, and depth, and height;

Ephesians 3:19

And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.

Revelation 3:7

¶ And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth;

John 17:3

And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.

Isaiah 57:15

For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name [is] Holy; I dwell in the high and holy [place], with him also [that is] of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.