Proverbs 8:19

KJV

My fruit [is] better than gold, yea, than fine gold; and my revenue than choice silver.

KJV (with Strong's)

My fruit {H6529} is better {H2896} than gold {H2742}, yea, than fine gold {H6337}; and my revenue {H8393} than choice {H977} silver {H3701}.

Complete Jewish Bible

My fruit is better than gold, fine gold, my produce better than the finest silver.

Berean Standard Bible

My fruit is better than gold, pure gold, and my harvest surpasses choice silver.

American Standard Version

My fruit is better than gold, yea, than fine gold; And my revenue than choice silver.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 8:19, spoken by Lady Wisdom, powerfully asserts the immeasurable superiority of wisdom's benefits over the most coveted material wealth. Through vivid comparison to gold, fine gold, and choice silver, Wisdom declares that the "fruit" and "revenue" she yields—representing the lasting outcomes, character formation, and spiritual prosperity derived from living by her principles—are inherently more valuable and eternally rewarding than any earthly treasure. This verse encapsulates the core message of Proverbs 8, urging humanity to prioritize divine wisdom above all other pursuits.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 8 is a magnificent poetic monologue delivered by Lady Wisdom, personified as a noble and ancient figure. She stands at the crossroads, calling out to humanity, inviting them to embrace her instruction. The chapter begins with her public proclamation (Proverbs 8:1-5), asserting her accessibility and the clarity of her message. She then describes the truth and righteousness of her words (Proverbs 8:6-9), emphasizing their inherent value. Prior to verse 19, Wisdom has already established that she possesses lasting riches, honor, righteousness, and strength (Proverbs 8:18), setting the stage for her declaration of superior worth. This verse serves as a climactic statement, quantifying her value against the highest known earthly standards, reinforcing the call to choose wisdom over folly, as seen throughout [the book of Proverbs](/proverbs/1 "The Book of Proverbs - Wisdom Literature").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, gold and silver were not merely symbols of wealth but were the primary forms of stored value, used for trade, status, and security. "Fine gold" (pâz) and "choice silver" (keçeph bâchar) refer to the purest and most highly refined forms of these metals, representing the absolute pinnacle of material riches. The audience of Proverbs would have immediately understood these terms as signifying ultimate prosperity and desirability. By comparing her "fruit" and "revenue" to these precious metals, Lady Wisdom speaks in terms of the highest possible value known to her listeners, making her claim both relatable and profoundly challenging. The pursuit of wisdom, in this context, was not just an intellectual exercise but a practical, life-shaping endeavor that promised tangible benefits, often contrasted with the fleeting nature of ill-gotten or purely material gain, a theme echoed in passages like [Proverbs 11:4](/proverbs/11-4 "Proverbs 11:4 - Riches do not profit in the day of wrath").
* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 8:19 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Proverbs and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it champions **The Surpassing Value of Wisdom**, unequivocally stating that wisdom's benefits far exceed any material possession. This is a recurring motif, as seen in [Proverbs 3:13-15](/proverbs/3-13-15 "Proverbs 3:13-15 - The Blessedness of Wisdom"), where wisdom is declared more precious than rubies. Secondly, the verse highlights **Wisdom's Tangible Rewards**, using terms like "fruit" and "revenue" to denote the positive, practical, and enduring outcomes of a life lived in accordance with divine instruction. These rewards encompass not just material blessings (though wisdom often leads to prosperity) but also moral integrity, discernment, peace, and long life. Thirdly, it establishes a clear **Contrast Between Spiritual and Material Wealth**, asserting that true and lasting riches are found in wisdom, not in transient earthly treasures. This theme challenges the human tendency to prioritize accumulation of wealth over the cultivation of character and understanding, a tension explored in [Matthew 6:19-21](/matthew/6-19-21 "Matthew 6:19-21 - Lay Up Treasures in Heaven").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **fruit (Hebrew, _pᵉrîy'_):** This term (H6529) derives from a root meaning "to be fruitful." It refers to the literal produce of a tree or land, but also figuratively to the outcome, reward, or consequence of actions or principles. In this context, it signifies the beneficial results, character development, and positive life outcomes that wisdom yields. It's the tangible manifestation of wisdom's influence in one's life.
* **better (Hebrew, _ṭôwb'_):** This word (H2896) is a broad term meaning "good" in the widest sense. It encompasses concepts of beauty, favor, pleasantness, prosperity, and excellence. When used comparatively as "better," it indicates a clear superiority in quality, value, and desirability. Wisdom's "fruit" is not just good, but qualitatively superior to gold.
* **gold (Hebrew, _chărûwts'_):** This term (H2742) refers to gold, often specifically gold that has been mined or incised. It represents a standard of immense value and preciousness in the ancient world. By contrasting wisdom's fruit with "gold" and then "fine gold," the text emphasizes the extreme degree of wisdom's superiority over even the most refined and valuable earthly commodities.
* **revenue (Hebrew, _tᵉbûwʼâh'_):** This word (H8393) refers to income, produce, or gain, whether literal agricultural yield or financial profit. It underscores the idea that wisdom is not merely an abstract concept but yields a real, tangible "return on investment" in one's life, just as a successful venture yields revenue.
* **choice (Hebrew, _bâchar'_):** This term (H977), used here in conjunction with silver, means "to try" or "to select," implying something that has been chosen or is choice because of its excellent quality. "Choice silver" (H3701, keçeph) refers to silver of the highest purity and value, further intensifying the comparison with wisdom's superior worth.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"My fruit [is] better than gold, yea, than fine gold":** Lady Wisdom initiates her declaration by presenting her "fruit"—the outcomes and benefits of embracing her—as inherently superior. The comparison begins with "gold," a universally recognized symbol of wealth and value. The phrase "yea, than fine gold" then intensifies this comparison. "Fine gold" (pâz) refers to gold that has been purified, representing the highest possible standard of material wealth. By declaring her fruit better than even this refined gold, Wisdom asserts an absolute and undeniable supremacy, indicating that her benefits are of a different, higher order of value.
* **"and my revenue than choice silver":** This second clause parallels the first, reinforcing and expanding upon the initial claim. "My revenue" refers to the gain or profit derived from wisdom, akin to the yield from an investment. This revenue is then compared to "choice silver," which denotes silver of the highest quality, carefully selected or refined. The parallelism underscores the comprehensive nature of wisdom's benefits—both its inherent "fruit" (outcomes) and its practical "revenue" (gain) are far more valuable than the most prized material possessions.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 8:19 employs several powerful **literary devices** to convey its message. **Personification** is central to the entire chapter, as Wisdom is presented as a living, speaking entity, allowing abstract qualities to be understood in relatable, human terms. This makes her declaration of value more immediate and compelling. **Hyperbole** is evident in the extreme comparison; while gold and silver are highly valued, the assertion that wisdom is "better" than even the finest forms of these metals uses exaggeration to emphasize its immeasurable worth. This is not a literal economic statement but a theological and philosophical one about ultimate value. **Parallelism** is skillfully used in the verse's structure: "My fruit is better than gold, yea, than fine gold" is paralleled by "and my revenue than choice silver." This synonymous parallelism reinforces the core message through repetition and slight variation, deepening the impact and ensuring the listener grasps the comprehensive nature of wisdom's superiority. Finally, **Metaphor** is at play with "fruit" and "revenue" representing the intangible benefits and outcomes of wisdom, drawing on agricultural and economic imagery to make abstract concepts concrete and desirable.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 8:19 stands as a profound theological statement on the true nature of wealth and value from a divine perspective. It challenges the common human inclination to equate prosperity solely with material accumulation, redirecting focus to the enduring riches found in wisdom. This wisdom, as presented in Proverbs, is not merely intellectual prowess but a moral and spiritual alignment with God's order for the world. The "fruit" and "revenue" of wisdom encompass not just material well-being (though wisdom often leads to responsible stewardship and blessing) but more importantly, righteousness, integrity, discernment, peace, and a life lived in harmony with the Creator's design. This perspective aligns with broader biblical teachings that emphasize the fleeting nature of earthly treasures compared to eternal spiritual realities.

* [Proverbs 3:13-15](/proverbs/3-13-15 "Proverbs 3:13-15 - The Blessedness of Wisdom")
* [Matthew 6:19-21](/matthew/6-19-21 "Matthew 6:19-21 - Lay Up Treasures in Heaven")
* [Philippians 3:7-8](/philippians/3-7-8 "Philippians 3:7-8 - Paul's Gain is Loss for Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 8:19 serves as a timeless challenge to our modern values, often heavily influenced by consumerism and the relentless pursuit of financial gain. In a world that frequently measures success by net worth, material possessions, or career achievements, Lady Wisdom's declaration forces us to pause and re-evaluate our priorities. What do we truly consider "better" than gold or fine gold? Is it financial security, social status, or perhaps fleeting pleasures? This verse calls us to shift our focus from accumulating perishable wealth to cultivating imperishable wisdom—the kind that shapes character, guides decisions, fosters healthy relationships, and leads to a life of true purpose and peace. The "fruit" and "revenue" of wisdom are not subject to market fluctuations, theft, or decay; they are internal, spiritual, and eternal. Embracing this truth encourages us to invest our time, energy, and resources not primarily in what the world values, but in seeking understanding, discernment, and a deeper knowledge of God, knowing that such an investment yields the richest and most enduring returns.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "gold" or "choice silver" am I currently pursuing in my life, and how does that pursuit compare to my pursuit of wisdom?**
* **In what practical ways can I prioritize seeking wisdom—which the Bible often equates with the knowledge of God and living according to His ways—above other daily demands and desires?**
* **What "fruit" and "revenue" of wisdom have I already experienced in my life, and how can I more intentionally cultivate these spiritual riches?**

### FAQ
**What does "fruit" and "revenue" mean in this context?**

Answer: In Proverbs 8:19, "fruit" (Hebrew: _pᵉrîy_) and "revenue" (Hebrew: _tᵉbûwʼâh_) are metaphorical terms used by Lady Wisdom to describe the positive outcomes, benefits, and lasting rewards that come from embracing and living by her principles. "Fruit" suggests the natural, inherent produce or result of wisdom in one's character and actions, much like the fruit of a tree. "Revenue" refers to the gain, profit, or yield derived from wisdom, akin to the return on an investment. Together, they signify the comprehensive and tangible blessings—including moral integrity, discernment, peace, righteous living, and often, even practical prosperity—that wisdom provides, which are far superior to any material wealth. This concept of wisdom yielding good fruit is echoed in [Matthew 7:17-18](/matthew/7-17-18 "Matthew 7:17-18 - By their fruits you will know them").

**Why does Lady Wisdom compare her benefits to "gold, yea, than fine gold; and...choice silver"?**

Answer: Lady Wisdom uses "gold," "fine gold," and "choice silver" because these were the most precious and universally recognized symbols of wealth, value, and security in the ancient world. By comparing her "fruit" and "revenue" to these ultimate material treasures, she employs a powerful rhetorical device to emphasize the immeasurable and absolute superiority of what she offers. It's a declaration that the spiritual and moral riches of wisdom transcend all earthly value, challenging listeners to reconsider their priorities and recognize that true prosperity lies not in what can be accumulated materially, but in the enduring benefits of a life guided by divine understanding. This comparison highlights a core biblical truth found throughout the wisdom literature, that spiritual riches are of greater worth than material possessions, as also taught in [Proverbs 16:16](/proverbs/16-16 "Proverbs 16:16 - How much better is it to get wisdom than gold!").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 8:19, with Lady Wisdom's declaration of her surpassing worth, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The "fruit" and "revenue" that Lady Wisdom promises—righteousness, life, understanding, and true riches—are perfectly embodied and freely offered in Christ, who is revealed in the New Testament as the very [Wisdom of God personified](/1_corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ the Power and Wisdom of God"). Just as Lady Wisdom was present at creation (Proverbs 8:22-31), so too was Christ, the [Logos](/john/1-1-3 "John 1:1-3 - The Word Was God"), through whom all things were made. The "fine gold" and "choice silver" of this world pale in comparison to the "unsearchable riches of Christ" ([Ephesians 3:8](/ephesians/3-8 "Unsearchable Riches of Christ")), which include not only salvation and eternal life but also a new nature, spiritual discernment, and a relationship with God. The "fruit" of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23)—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control—are the true and lasting "revenue" that comes from being united with Christ, far exceeding any earthly gain. Therefore, to seek the wisdom of Proverbs 8:19 is, in the Christian understanding, to seek Christ himself, for in Him "are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - All Treasures of Wisdom and Knowledge")), and His "gain" is indeed better than all the gold and silver the world has to offer, leading to a life of true abundance and eternal glory ([John 10:10](/john/10-10 "John 10:10 - Abundant Life"); [Philippians 3:7-8](/philippians/3-7-8 "Philippians 3:7-8 - Paul's Gain is Loss for Christ")).

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 3:14

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

Proverbs 10:20

¶ The tongue of the just [is as] choice silver: the heart of the wicked [is] little worth.

Proverbs 8:10

Receive my instruction, and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold.

Ecclesiastes 7:12

For wisdom [is] a defence, [and] money [is] a defence: but the excellency of knowledge [is, that] wisdom giveth life to them that have it.