Proverbs 5:1

KJV

¶ My son, attend unto my wisdom, [and] bow thine ear to my understanding:

KJV (with Strong's)

My son {H1121}, attend {H7181} unto my wisdom {H2451}, and bow {H5186} thine ear {H241} to my understanding {H8394}:

Complete Jewish Bible

My son, pay attention to my wisdom; incline your ear to my understanding;

Berean Standard Bible

My son, pay attention to my wisdom; incline your ear to my insight,

American Standard Version

My son, attend unto my wisdom; Incline thine ear to my understanding:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 5:1 serves as an urgent and loving appeal from a father or teacher to his son or disciple, imploring him to give diligent and humble attention to the profound wisdom and understanding that is about to be imparted. This verse acts as a crucial preamble, setting the stage for the vital moral instruction that follows, particularly concerning the grave dangers of sexual immorality and the destructive consequences of straying from the path of righteousness.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse inaugurates a new section within the "father to son" discourses that characterize the opening chapters of Proverbs (chapters 1-9). Following the general exhortations to embrace wisdom and fear the Lord found in earlier chapters, Proverbs 5 shifts focus to a specific and pressing moral danger: the "strange woman" or adulteress. Proverbs 5:1 functions as a foundational call to active listening and receptivity, establishing the necessary posture for the disciple to internalize the warnings that immediately follow, beginning with the seductive words described in [Proverbs 5:3](/proverbs/5-3 "Proverbs 5:3 - The Smooth Words of the Adulteress"). The entire chapter serves as a stark warning against infidelity, and this opening verse underscores that only by heeding wisdom can one successfully navigate such temptations.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the transmission of wisdom was primarily a familial and communal responsibility, often from father to son, or from an elder mentor to a younger protégé. Education was deeply intertwined with moral and spiritual formation. The warnings against the "strange woman" (often a euphemism for an adulteress or prostitute) were particularly pertinent in a society where such illicit relationships posed significant threats to family integrity, social order, and individual well-being. Adultery was not merely a personal sin but a societal disruption, carrying severe consequences, including financial ruin, social disgrace, and even death. The emphasis on "wisdom" and "understanding" reflects the Israelite conviction that true knowledge was not merely intellectual but practical and moral, guiding one's life choices in accordance with God's covenant.
* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 5:1 contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Proverbs. Firstly, it reinforces the **Primacy of Wisdom and Understanding**, presenting them as indispensable guides for life, essential for navigating moral complexities and avoiding destructive paths. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **Attentive Listening and Receptivity**, emphasizing that wisdom is not passively acquired but demands active, intentional, and humble engagement from the hearer, a concept echoed in [Proverbs 1:5](/proverbs/1-5 "Proverbs 1:5 - Let the Wise Hear and Increase Learning"). Thirdly, the verse underscores the **Authority and Loving Concern of the Teacher/Parent**, portraying the instruction as a benevolent act aimed at the son's welfare, reflecting the divine wisdom that seeks to guide humanity. Finally, it lays the groundwork for the theme of **Moral Discernment and Purity**, positioning the reception of wisdom as the prerequisite for making righteous choices and safeguarding one's integrity against the temptations detailed in the rest of the chapter, much like the warning to guard one's heart in [Proverbs 4:23](/proverbs/4-23 "Proverbs 4:23 - Guard Your Heart").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **son (Hebrew, _bên'_):** From the root meaning "to build" (H1121), this term signifies a male offspring, but also extends metaphorically to a disciple or student. In Proverbs, it emphasizes the intimate, paternal tone of the instruction, highlighting the foundational and relational aspect of transmitting wisdom from one generation to the next.
* **attend (Hebrew, _qâshab'_):** This primitive root (H7181) means "to prick up the ears" or "to hearken intently." It denotes an active, focused, and intentional effort to listen, implying a readiness to receive and process instruction, not merely passive hearing. It suggests a conscious mental and spiritual engagement.
* **bow (Hebrew, _nâṭâh'_):** While meaning "to stretch or spread out," in this context (H5186) it implies "to bend away" or "to incline." When paired with "ear," it suggests a humble and eager posture of receptivity, literally leaning in to catch every word. This physical posture reflects an inner disposition of humility and submission to the teaching.
* **wisdom (Hebrew, _chokmâh'_):** (H2451) refers to practical skill and discernment, especially in ethical and spiritual matters. It is not merely intellectual knowledge but the ability to apply truth effectively to life, leading to righteous living and successful navigation of complex situations.
* **understanding (Hebrew, _tâbûwn'_):** (H8394) denotes intelligence, discretion, and the ability to discern and comprehend. It complements "wisdom" by emphasizing insight and the capacity to grasp the underlying meaning, implications, and distinctions within the instruction, enabling sound judgment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"My son,"**: This opening address establishes the intimate and authoritative relationship between the speaker (father/teacher) and the hearer (son/disciple). It conveys a tone of loving concern and paternal guidance, setting the stage for instruction that is both personal and vital.
* **"attend unto my wisdom,"**: This is an imperative command calling for active and deliberate listening. The word "attend" implies pricking up the ears, focusing one's mind, and giving full mental and spiritual concentration to the wisdom being offered. It underscores that wisdom is not passively absorbed but must be intentionally sought and received.
* **"and bow thine ear to my understanding:"**: This second imperative reinforces the first, emphasizing a posture of humility and receptivity. "Bowing the ear" suggests inclining oneself, physically and metaphorically, to hear every word. It implies a willingness to submit to the instruction and to acknowledge the teacher's authority and insight, ensuring that the understanding imparted is truly internalized.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 5:1 employs several effective literary devices to convey its urgent message. The use of **Imperative Mood** ("attend," "bow") immediately establishes the authoritative and demanding nature of the instruction, signaling that this is not merely advice but a command requiring immediate action. **Parallelism** is evident in the two clauses, "attend unto my wisdom" and "bow thine ear to my understanding." This **Synonymous Parallelism** reiterates and intensifies the central theme of receptive listening, emphasizing both the intellectual and volitional aspects of embracing wisdom. Furthermore, the phrase "bow thine ear" is a **Metonymy**, where "ear" stands for the act of listening and the disposition of receptivity. It is also a vivid **Imagery**, painting a picture of a humble and eager student leaning in to catch every precious word from the teacher, thereby underscoring the importance of the message.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 5:1 encapsulates a foundational theological principle: the absolute necessity of receiving and internalizing divine wisdom for a life of righteousness and flourishing. This call to attentive listening is not merely about intellectual assent but about a holistic orientation of one's life towards God's truth. The wisdom and understanding offered are ultimately rooted in God's own character and His revealed will, providing the moral compass necessary to navigate a fallen world. The verse thus connects to the broader biblical theme of God's desire for humanity to walk in His ways, avoiding the destructive paths of sin. It highlights that true discernment, particularly in matters of moral purity, stems from a humble receptivity to divine instruction, which serves as a protective shield against temptation and folly.

* [Psalm 119:105](/psalm/119-105 "Your Word Is a Lamp to My Feet")
* [James 1:5](/james/1-5 "Ask God for Wisdom")
* [Deuteronomy 6:6-7](/deuteronomy/6-6-7 "Teach These Words Diligently")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 5:1 offers a timeless and vital call to cultivate a posture of active listening and humble receptivity to godly wisdom. In a world saturated with competing voices, distractions, and moral ambiguities, the imperative to "attend unto my wisdom" challenges us to intentionally seek out and prioritize truth. This means not just passively hearing, but diligently engaging with the Scriptures, listening to the counsel of wise mentors, and discerning the voice of the Holy Spirit. "Bowing thine ear" further implies a humility that acknowledges our need for guidance and a willingness to submit our own inclinations to higher wisdom. This verse is particularly relevant for navigating the moral temptations of our age, reminding us that a strong foundation of wisdom is the most effective defense against destructive choices. By internalizing divine understanding, we build resilience, cultivate discernment, and are equipped to walk a path of integrity and flourishing, honoring God in all our decisions.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What voices or sources of "wisdom" do I primarily "attend unto" in my life today? Are they aligned with God's truth?**
* **In what areas of my life do I struggle to "bow my ear" or humbly receive instruction, particularly from God's Word or trusted godly counsel?**
* **How does cultivating a posture of attentive listening to divine wisdom prepare me to face specific temptations or moral dilemmas in my daily life?**
* **What practical steps can I take to more intentionally "attend unto" God's wisdom and "bow my ear" to His understanding this week?**

### FAQ
**Why does the proverb emphasize "my wisdom" and "my understanding" rather than explicitly "God's wisdom"?**

Answer: While the immediate speaker is a human father or teacher, the wisdom and understanding imparted in Proverbs are ultimately rooted in divine truth. The "my" refers to the wisdom that the teacher has acquired through experience, observation, and most importantly, through adherence to God's principles. The book of Proverbs consistently links true wisdom with the fear of the Lord (e.g., [Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the Lord Is the Beginning of Knowledge")). Therefore, the human teacher serves as a conduit for God's wisdom, making the instruction both personal and divinely authoritative. The call to listen to "my wisdom" is implicitly a call to listen to wisdom that reflects God's character and design for human flourishing.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 5:1, with its earnest call to attend to wisdom and understanding, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament wisdom literature points to a path of righteousness and discernment, it is in Christ that divine wisdom is fully embodied and perfectly revealed. He is not merely a teacher of wisdom, but "the wisdom of God" personified ([1 Corinthians 1:24](/1_corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ the Power and Wisdom of God")). The call to "attend unto my wisdom" becomes a call to listen to and follow Christ, who declares, "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me" ([John 10:27](/john/10-27 "John 10:27 - My Sheep Hear My Voice")). To "bow thine ear to my understanding" is to humbly receive the teachings of Jesus, recognizing that "in him are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - In Whom Are Hidden All Treasures")). He is the true "Son" who perfectly heard and obeyed the Father, and through His life, death, and resurrection, He provides the ultimate understanding for navigating the temptations of sin, especially those related to moral purity, offering grace and a new heart to those who believe ([Hebrews 4:15-16](/hebrews/4-15-16 "Hebrews 4:15-16 - Our High Priest Understands Our Weaknesses")). Thus, the wisdom sought in Proverbs is fully realized in a saving relationship with Christ, who empowers believers to live lives of integrity and discernment.

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 22:17

¶ Bow down thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply thine heart unto my knowledge.

Proverbs 4:20

¶ My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings.

Proverbs 2:1

¶ My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee;

Revelation 2:11

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.

James 1:19

¶ Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:

Revelation 2:17

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth [it].

Mark 4:23

If any man have ears to hear, let him hear.