4:7 4:7

Proverbs 4:8

4:9 4:9

Bible Versions

Exalt her, and she shall promote thee: she shall bring thee to honour, when thou dost embrace her.
Exalt {H5549} her, and she shall promote {H7311} thee: she shall bring thee to honour {H3513}, when thou dost embrace {H2263} her.
Cherish her, and she will exalt you; embrace her, and she will bring you honor;
Prize her, and she will exalt you; if you embrace her, she will honor you.
Exalt her, and she will promote thee; She will bring thee to honor, when thou dost embrace her.

Proverbs 4:8 is a powerful verse that continues the fatherly instruction on the supreme value of wisdom, urging the listener to actively pursue and cherish it. This proverb promises significant rewards—promotion and honor—to those who truly embrace wisdom.

Context

This verse is part of a larger section in Proverbs (Proverbs 4:1-9) where King Solomon, as a wise father, implores his son to heed his teachings and prioritize wisdom above all else. The "her" in this verse refers directly to wisdom, which is personified throughout the book of Proverbs as a noble woman, a guide, and a source of life. The advice is set against the backdrop of ancient Israelite society, where wisdom was not merely intellectual knowledge but also practical skill and moral discernment, essential for a prosperous and respected life.

Key Themes

  • The Supreme Value of Wisdom: The verse underscores that wisdom is not just beneficial but worthy of being "exalted" and "embraced," implying a deep reverence and commitment. This aligns with Proverbs 3:13-18, which describes wisdom as more precious than rubies.
  • Reward for Pursuit: A clear cause-and-effect is presented: valuing wisdom leads to promotion and honor. This isn't necessarily a guarantee of worldly success, but often refers to a life of integrity, respect, and divine favor.
  • Active Engagement: The verbs "exalt" and "embrace" suggest an intentional, personal, and affectionate relationship with wisdom, rather than a passive acquisition of facts.

Linguistic Insights

  • "Exalt her" (Hebrew: rāmam - רומם): This word means to lift up, raise high, or praise. It implies giving wisdom the highest place of importance and esteem in one's life.
  • "Promote thee" (Hebrew: rûm - רום): Interestingly, this word is closely related to rāmam, creating a linguistic play. It signifies being raised up, exalted, or elevated. The very act of exalting wisdom leads to one's own exaltation.
  • "Embrace her" (Hebrew: ḥābaq - חבק): This term means to clasp, enfold, or hug. It conveys intimacy, affection, and a strong, personal commitment to wisdom, suggesting a deep bond and reliance.
  • "Honour" (Hebrew: kābôd - כבוד): This refers to glory, reputation, and respect. It's the recognition and esteem that comes from living wisely.

Practical Application

For believers today, "wisdom" ultimately points to God's truth and His Word. To "exalt" and "embrace" wisdom means to:

  • Prioritize God's Word: Make studying and meditating on the Bible a central part of life, recognizing it as the source of true wisdom.
  • Seek Understanding: Don't just read, but strive to understand and apply biblical principles to daily decisions and challenges.
  • Live Wisely: Allow wisdom to guide actions, choices, and relationships, leading to a life that honors God and earns respect from others.

The promise of promotion and honor is a reminder that while the world often values fleeting achievements, God values a heart and life committed to His wisdom, leading to lasting fulfillment and genuine esteem. As James 1:5 encourages, we can always ask God for wisdom, and He will give it generously.

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.

  • Daniel 12:3

    And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.

  • 1 Samuel 2:30

    Wherefore the LORD God of Israel saith, I said indeed [that] thy house, and the house of thy father, should walk before me for ever: but now the LORD saith, Be it far from me; for them that honour me I will honour, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed.

  • Proverbs 3:35

    The wise shall inherit glory: but shame shall be the promotion of fools.

  • Proverbs 22:4

    ¶ By humility [and] the fear of the LORD [are] riches, and honour, and life.

  • 1 Kings 3:5

    ¶ In Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream by night: and God said, Ask what I shall give thee.

  • 1 Kings 3:13

    And I have also given thee that which thou hast not asked, both riches, and honour: so that there shall not be any among the kings like unto thee all thy days.
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