Proverbs 4:5

KJV

Get wisdom, get understanding: forget [it] not; neither decline from the words of my mouth.

KJV (with Strong's)

Get {H7069} wisdom {H2451}, get {H7069} understanding {H998}: forget {H7911} it not; neither decline {H5186} from the words {H561} of my mouth {H6310}.

Complete Jewish Bible

gain wisdom, gain insight; don't forget or turn from the words I am saying.

Berean Standard Bible

Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or turn from them.

American Standard Version

Get wisdom, get understanding; Forget not, neither decline from the words of my mouth;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 4:5 delivers a potent paternal exhortation, urging the son to actively acquire and diligently retain wisdom and understanding. This verse underscores that these virtues are not passive endowments but require intentional pursuit and steadfast adherence. It further warns against neglecting or deviating from the foundational, life-giving instructions passed down, emphasizing their critical role in shaping a righteous and flourishing life in alignment with divine principles.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 4:5 is nested within a larger discourse (Proverbs 1-9) where a father, embodying the voice of divine wisdom, passionately instructs his son. Specifically, chapter 4 serves as a powerful call to embrace wisdom as the "principal thing" [Proverbs 4:7](/proverbs/4-7 "Proverbs 4:7 - Wisdom is the Principal Thing"). The preceding verses establish the father's own experience of receiving wisdom from his parents, creating a generational legacy of instruction. This verse, therefore, is not an isolated command but part of a continuous, earnest appeal for the son to internalize and live by the guiding principles that promise life, honor, and peace, contrasting sharply with the path of the wicked described later in the chapter [Proverbs 4:14-19](/proverbs/4-14 "Proverbs 4:14-19 - The Path of the Wicked").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of Proverbs reflects the ancient Near Eastern tradition of wisdom literature, often taking the form of paternal instruction. In Israelite society, the transmission of moral and theological truth from one generation to the next, particularly from father to son, was paramount. The "words of my mouth" would have carried the authority of both parental guidance and, implicitly, divine revelation, as the wisdom imparted was understood to originate from God Himself. Education was primarily familial and communal, focusing on practical righteousness and the development of character within the covenant community, preparing individuals for life within the established social and religious order. This cultural emphasis on intergenerational teaching highlights the urgency and weight of the father's plea.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully articulates several core themes prevalent throughout Proverbs. The **Active Pursuit of Wisdom** is paramount, emphasized by the repeated imperative "Get wisdom, get understanding," portraying wisdom not as a static concept but as a dynamic quest. The **Inseparable Nature of Wisdom and Understanding** is also highlighted; while distinct, they are presented as complementary, essential for both discerning truth and applying it practically. Furthermore, the theme of **Steadfast Adherence to Instruction** is crucial, as "forget it not" and "neither decline from the words of my mouth" underscore the necessity of continuous remembrance and unwavering obedience to the divine counsel that leads to life [Proverbs 3:1-2](/proverbs/3-1 "Proverbs 3:1-2 - Do Not Forget My Teaching"). This pursuit and adherence are presented as the very foundation for a life of blessing and protection, contrasting sharply with the destructive consequences of rejecting wisdom found elsewhere in the book [Proverbs 1:24-32](/proverbs/1-24 "Proverbs 1:24-32 - Wisdom's Rebuke").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Get (Hebrew, _qânâh'_):** From H7069, this primitive root means "to erect," "create," and by extension, "to procure, especially by purchase." It implies an active, intentional acquisition, often at a cost or with effort. In this context, it suggests that wisdom and understanding are not simply given but must be earnestly sought, worked for, and perhaps even "bought" through diligent study, prayer, and discipline, valuing them above all else.
* **Wisdom (Hebrew, _chokmâh'_):** From H2451, this term refers to practical skill in living, the ability to make sound judgments, and to apply knowledge effectively in daily life. It encompasses moral insight, prudence, and the capacity to navigate life's complexities in a way that aligns with God's design. It's not merely intellectual acumen but a holistic, God-centered way of life that leads to flourishing.
* **Decline (Hebrew, _nâṭâh'_):** From H5186, this root means "to stretch or spread out" and, by implication, "to bend away" or "to deviate." In a moral sense, it signifies turning aside, straying, or perverting from the right path. The imperative "neither decline" is a strong warning against any deviation from the divinely inspired "words of my mouth," emphasizing the importance of steadfast adherence to the established moral and spiritual course.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Get wisdom, get understanding":** This opening phrase is a powerful, repeated imperative, highlighting the supreme importance and active nature of acquiring these virtues. "Get" (qânâh) implies an earnest, almost acquisitive pursuit, suggesting that wisdom and understanding are treasures to be sought diligently and possessed. The repetition emphasizes the urgency and priority of this command, setting the tone for the entire exhortation.
* **"forget [it] not":** This is a crucial negative command, serving as a vital counterpoint to the initial imperative. It warns against the passive loss of what has been acquired. Forgetting here is not merely a lapse of memory but a failure to retain, internalize, and apply the wisdom and understanding gained. It implies a danger of complacency or distraction that could lead to spiritual and moral negligence, undermining the very foundation of a righteous life.
* **"neither decline from the words of my mouth":** This final clause provides a specific boundary and source for the wisdom and understanding. "Decline" (nâṭâh) signifies turning away, deviating, or straying from a prescribed path. The "words of my mouth" represent the authoritative, life-giving instruction passed down by the father, which in the broader context of Proverbs, aligns with God's revealed truth. This command emphasizes the necessity of steadfast obedience and unwavering adherence to divine counsel as the means of maintaining the path of wisdom.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 4:5 employs several potent **Literary Devices**. The most prominent is **Imperative Mood**, seen in the repeated commands "Get wisdom, get understanding," "forget it not," and "neither decline." This direct, authoritative tone underscores the urgency and non-negotiable nature of the instruction. **Repetition** of "Get wisdom, get understanding" serves to emphasize the paramount importance and active pursuit required for these virtues. There is also an implied **Metaphor** where wisdom and understanding are depicted as valuable possessions or treasures to be actively acquired, similar to how one might "get" or purchase something of great worth. Furthermore, the "words of my mouth" function as a **Metonymy** for the entire body of instruction and moral teaching, representing the authoritative source of truth. Finally, the act of "declining" from these words employs **Synecdoche**, where a part (turning away) represents the whole (disobedience or abandonment of the path of righteousness).

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 4:5 encapsulates a foundational theological truth: that true wisdom is not merely intellectual knowledge but a divine gift and a moral imperative, intrinsically linked to God's character and His revealed will. The active pursuit of wisdom and understanding is presented as the primary means by which humanity can align with God's created order and experience His blessing. This wisdom, originating from God, is essential for discerning good from evil, making righteous choices, and navigating life's complexities. The warning against forgetting or declining from divine instruction highlights the ongoing human tendency to stray from God's path and underscores the necessity of continuous reliance on His truth for spiritual flourishing and protection from the snares of folly.

* [Proverbs 2:1-6](/proverbs/2-1 "Proverbs 2:1-6 - The Rewards of Seeking Wisdom")
* [Deuteronomy 6:6-7](/deuteronomy/6-6 "Deuteronomy 6:6-7 - Teach Your Children Diligently")
* [Psalm 119:105](/psalms/119-105 "Psalm 119:105 - Your Word is a Lamp")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 4:5 stands as a timeless call to prioritize the acquisition and retention of spiritual wisdom and understanding above all else. In a world saturated with information but often lacking true discernment, this verse challenges us to diligently seek God's truth as the ultimate guide for life. It reminds us that wisdom is not a passive inheritance but an active pursuit, requiring intentional effort, humble learning, and steadfast commitment. We are called not only to gain knowledge but to internalize it so deeply that it shapes our decisions, our character, and our very way of being. The warning against forgetting or declining from God's words serves as a crucial reminder of our susceptibility to complacency and the need for continuous engagement with Scripture and prayer to remain on the path of righteousness. This verse encourages a lifelong journey of spiritual growth, where every choice is informed by divine insight, leading to a life that honors God and blesses others.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What practical steps can I take today to "get wisdom" and "get understanding" in my daily life?**
* **In what areas of my life might I be prone to "forgetting" or "declining" from God's words, and how can I guard against this?**
* **How does my pursuit of wisdom compare to my pursuit of other things like wealth, success, or comfort?**
* **Who are the "mouths" or sources of instruction in my life that align with God's truth, and how am I heeding their counsel?**

### FAQ

**What is the difference between "wisdom" and "understanding" as used in Proverbs?**

Answer: While often used together and complementary, "wisdom" (Hebrew: *chokmâh*) generally refers to the practical skill of living life successfully and righteously according to God's design. It's the ability to apply knowledge and insight to make good decisions and live prudently. "Understanding" (Hebrew: *bîynâh*), on the other hand, often refers to the discernment or insight needed to grasp the underlying principles, distinguish between right and wrong, and comprehend the deeper meaning of things. One might say wisdom is knowing what to do, and understanding is knowing why and how to do it effectively. They are both essential for a flourishing life, as emphasized in passages like [Proverbs 2:1-6](/proverbs/2-1 "Proverbs 2:1-6 - The Rewards of Seeking Wisdom").

**Why is the father so emphatic about "getting" wisdom and understanding?**

Answer: The father's emphatic tone, particularly the repetition of "get," underscores the supreme value and active nature of acquiring wisdom. In Proverbs, wisdom is portrayed as the most valuable possession, more precious than rubies or gold [Proverbs 3:13-15](/proverbs/3-13 "Proverbs 3:13-15 - The Value of Wisdom"). It is not passively inherited or automatically acquired with age, but must be diligently sought, pursued, and even "purchased" through intentional effort, study, and a willingness to learn. This active pursuit is essential because wisdom is presented as the very foundation for a life of blessing, protection, and true flourishing [Proverbs 4:8-9](/proverbs/4-8 "Proverbs 4:8-9 - Wisdom Leads to Honor").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 4:5, with its urgent call to "Get wisdom, get understanding" and to not "decline from the words of my mouth," finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament wisdom tradition points to an abstract principle or a personified attribute, the New Testament reveals that Jesus Christ is the very embodiment of God's wisdom. Paul declares that Christ is "the power of God and the wisdom of God" [1 Corinthians 1:24](/1_corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ the Power and Wisdom of God") and that in Him "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" [Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - Christ, in Whom All Wisdom Dwells"). Therefore, to "get wisdom" today is to come to know Christ, for He is the one who perfectly reveals the Father and His will. The "words of my mouth" in Proverbs, representing divine instruction, are perfectly fulfilled in the words and teachings of Jesus, who spoke with unparalleled authority and truth [John 6:68](/john/6-68 "John 6:68 - Peter's Confession of Jesus' Words"). To "forget it not" and "neither decline" from these words is to abide in Christ and His teachings, recognizing that His words are "spirit and life" [John 6:63](/john/6-63 "John 6:63 - The Spirit Gives Life"). The pursuit of wisdom, once a diligent search for abstract principles, now becomes a personal relationship with the Living Word, Jesus Christ, through whom we receive true understanding and the very mind of God [Philippians 2:5](/philippians/2-5 "Philippians 2:5 - Have the Mind of Christ").

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

James 1:5

If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all [men] liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

Proverbs 3:13

¶ Happy [is] the man [that] findeth wisdom, and the man [that] getteth understanding.

Proverbs 3:18

She [is] a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy [is every one] that retaineth her.

2 Chronicles 34:2

And he did [that which was] right in the sight of the LORD, and walked in the ways of David his father, and declined [neither] to the right hand, nor to the left.

Proverbs 1:22

How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge?

Proverbs 1:23

Turn you at my reproof: behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you.

Proverbs 8:5

O ye simple, understand wisdom: and, ye fools, be ye of an understanding heart.