Proverbs 5:1

Proverbs 5:1 serves as an earnest plea from a father or teacher to a son or disciple, urging diligent attention to the wisdom and understanding being imparted. This verse sets the stage for the vital moral instruction that follows, particularly concerning the dangers of sexual immorality.

Context

This verse opens a new section within the book of Proverbs, specifically within the "father to son" discourse (chapters 1-9). It is a foundational call to listen, preceding detailed warnings against the "strange woman" or adulteress, which begins in Proverbs 5:3. The emphasis here is on the absolute necessity of receiving and internalizing wisdom as a preventative measure against future temptations and pitfalls. It mirrors the general call to heed parental instruction found elsewhere in Proverbs.

Key Themes

• The Primacy of Wisdom and Understanding: The verse highlights wisdom (`chokmah`) and understanding (`binah`) as paramount, presenting them not merely as intellectual pursuits but as essential guides for life.
• Attentive Listening: The phrases "attend unto my wisdom" and "bow thine ear" underscore the need for active, intentional, and humble listening, not just passive hearing. This requires a conscious effort to absorb and process the instruction.
• Parental/Mentoral Authority: It establishes the authority and loving concern of the one giving counsel, emphasizing the value of guidance from experienced and godly sources.
• Foundation for Moral Living: Receiving this wisdom is presented as the prerequisite for making discerning choices and avoiding destructive paths, particularly those related to moral purity.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew terms used are quite evocative. "Attend unto my wisdom" translates the word qashab (קשב), which means "to prick up the ears," or "to listen intently and carefully." This implies a focused, intentional effort to hear. "Bow thine ear" comes from natah 'ozen (נטה אזן), meaning "to incline the ear" or "to stretch out the ear." This phrase suggests a posture of humility and eagerness to receive, literally bending down to catch every word. Together, these phrases convey a strong emphasis on active, receptive, and submissive listening, which is crucial for gaining true wisdom as the principal thing.

Practical Application

Proverbs 5:1 is a timeless reminder for all ages about the importance of being teachable. In a world full of competing voices and influences, the call to "attend unto my wisdom" encourages us to:

• Seek Godly Counsel: Actively listen to and value instruction from parents, mentors, spiritual leaders, and the clear teachings of Scripture.
• Cultivate Humility: "Bowing the ear" implies a humble posture, recognizing that we don't know everything and need guidance.
• Be Discerning Listeners: Not all advice is wise. This verse implicitly teaches us to align the wisdom we hear with divine truth, which is the ultimate source of understanding.
• Prepare for Temptation: By internalizing wisdom, we build a strong foundation that helps us navigate life's temptations, particularly those related to moral integrity, as detailed in the subsequent verses of this chapter. Just as a lamp guides our steps, wisdom illuminates our path away from danger.