Proverbs 8:18

Riches and honour [are] with me; [yea], durable riches and righteousness.

Riches {H6239} and honour {H3519} are with me; yea, durable {H6276} riches {H1952} and righteousness {H6666}.

Riches and honor are with me, lasting wealth and righteousness.

With me are riches and honor, enduring wealth and righteousness.

Riches and honor are with me; Yea, durable wealth and righteousness.

Proverbs 8:18 is a powerful declaration from Wisdom personified, emphasizing the superior and enduring blessings she offers to those who seek her. This verse stands as a cornerstone in the book of Proverbs, highlighting that true prosperity extends far beyond fleeting material gain.

Context

In Proverbs chapter 8, Wisdom speaks directly to humanity, presenting herself not as an abstract concept but as a tangible, desirable entity. She calls out to all, from the high places to the gates of the city (Proverbs 8:1-3), inviting them to receive her invaluable instruction. Throughout the chapter, Wisdom outlines her profound value, her role in creation (Proverbs 8:22-31), and the rich rewards that accompany her. Verse 18 is part of a list of specific benefits, assuring that her gifts are comprehensive and unparalleled.

Key Themes

  • The Nature of True Riches: Wisdom promises "riches and honour," but critically adds "durable riches." This distinction is vital. Worldly wealth can be temporary and insecure, but the prosperity that comes through wisdom is lasting and secure. It speaks to a profound, intrinsic value that cannot be lost to economic downturns or theft.
  • Wisdom's Connection to Righteousness: The pairing of "durable riches" with "righteousness" is paramount. It implies that true wealth is not merely financial but is inextricably linked to moral integrity, justice, and right living. This kind of prosperity is holistic, encompassing spiritual, moral, and even material well-being, all rooted in a life aligned with God's principles. This contrasts sharply with wealth gained through unrighteous means, which is often fleeting and brings sorrow (Proverbs 10:2).
  • The Superiority of Wisdom's Blessings: This verse, along with others in the chapter, positions wisdom's gifts as superior to gold, silver, or precious jewels (Proverbs 3:14-15). Her offerings lead to a life of stability, honor, and true fulfillment.

Linguistic Insights

  • The Hebrew word for "durable" (עָתֵק - ‘ateq) signifies something ancient, enduring, or lasting. It emphasizes that the riches from wisdom are not fleeting or temporary, but possess an inherent quality of permanence.
  • "Righteousness" (צֶדֶק - tsedeq) refers to moral uprightness, justice, and conformity to divine law. It is a state of being right with God and acting justly towards others. The verse underscores that true, lasting prosperity is always accompanied by moral integrity.

Practical Application

Proverbs 8:18 challenges us to re-evaluate our pursuit of wealth and success. Instead of solely chasing after transient material possessions, we are encouraged to seek wisdom first. When wisdom is prioritized, it naturally brings with it a form of prosperity that includes not only material blessings but also genuine honor, inner peace, and a clear conscience. It reminds us that investing in godly wisdom and living righteously leads to treasures that do not fade away and a life of lasting significance.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Proverbs 3:16

    Length of days [is] in her right hand; [and] in her left hand riches and honour.

  • Matthew 6:33

    But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

  • Luke 16:11

    If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true [riches]?

  • Luke 16:12

    And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own?

  • Philippians 4:19

    But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

  • Revelation 3:18

    I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and [that] the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.

  • Ephesians 3:8

    Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;

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