Proverbs 8:11

For wisdom [is] better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it.

For wisdom {H2451} is better {H2896} than rubies {H6443}; and all the things that may be desired {H2656} are not to be compared {H7737} to it.

For wisdom is better than pearls; nothing you want can compare with her.

For wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire compares with her.

For wisdom is better than rubies; And all the things that may be desired are not to be compared unto it.

Commentary

Context

Proverbs Chapter 8 presents a powerful personification of Wisdom, portraying her as a noble woman calling out to humanity in public places, offering invaluable counsel and insight. This chapter contrasts sharply with the earlier warnings against the "strange woman" (Proverbs 7), highlighting the choice between paths of life and death. Proverbs 8:11 builds upon the foundational teachings of the book, particularly the idea that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, by emphasizing wisdom's supreme value above all worldly possessions.

Key Themes

  • The Incomparable Value of Wisdom: The primary message of Proverbs 8:11 is the immense and unparalleled worth of wisdom. By stating it is "better than rubies," the verse uses a highly valuable gemstone as a benchmark, immediately establishing wisdom's superiority over great material wealth. This theme is consistent throughout Proverbs, asserting that true riches are not found in possessions but in understanding and discernment.
  • Redefining True Desire: The phrase "all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it" broadens wisdom's supremacy beyond just gems. It encompasses all human aspirations, pleasures, and achievements. This challenges the common human tendency to prioritize fleeting earthly gains, urging a reorientation of desires towards something infinitely more valuable and enduring. It aligns with the biblical principle of seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.

Linguistic Insights

  • The Hebrew word for "wisdom" here is chokmah (ื—ึธื›ึฐืžึธื”), which signifies not merely intellectual knowledge but practical skill, discernment, and the ability to live life skillfully according to God's design. It's about living wisely and successfully.
  • "Rubies" is translated from the Hebrew peninim (ืคึฐึผื ึดื™ื ึดื™ื), a precious gem often used in Proverbs as a symbol of ultimate earthly value. Its recurring appearance (e.g., Proverbs 3:15, Proverbs 31:10) consistently highlights that wisdom (or the virtuous woman who embodies it) surpasses even the most coveted treasures.

Practical Application

Proverbs 8:11 serves as a profound call to re-evaluate our priorities. In a world often driven by the pursuit of wealth, status, and fleeting pleasures, this verse reminds us that true and lasting fulfillment comes from seeking and embracing divine wisdom. It encourages us to invest our time, energy, and resources not primarily in accumulating material possessions, but in growing in discernment, understanding, and righteous living. This pursuit of wisdom involves diligent study of God's Word, prayer, and seeking godly counsel, promising far greater returns than any earthly gain. As James 1:5 teaches, we should ask God for wisdom, for He gives generously.

Note: If the commentary doesnโ€™t appear instantly, please allow 2โ€“5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Psalms 19:10 (7 votes)

    More to be desired [are they] than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.

  • Psalms 119:127 (7 votes)

    ยถ Therefore I love thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold.

  • Proverbs 4:5 (6 votes)

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

  • Proverbs 4:7 (6 votes)

    Wisdom [is] the principal thing; [therefore] get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.

  • Proverbs 16:16 (6 votes)

    ยถ How much better [is it] to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!

  • Matthew 16:26 (6 votes)

    For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?

  • Proverbs 3:14 (6 votes)

    For the merchandise of it [is] better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold.