Proverbs 8:30

KJV

Then I was by him, [as] one brought up [with him]: and I was daily [his] delight, rejoicing always before him;

KJV (with Strong's)

Then I was by him {H681}, as one brought up {H525} with him: and I was daily {H3117}{H3117} his delight {H8191}, rejoicing {H7832} always {H6256} before {H6440} him;

Complete Jewish Bible

I was with him as someone he could trust. For me, every day was pure delight, as I played in his presence all the time,.

Berean Standard Bible

Then I was a skilled craftsman at His side, and His delight day by day, rejoicing always in His presence.

American Standard Version

Then I was by him, asa master workman; And I was dailyhisdelight, Rejoicing always before him,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 8:30 vividly portrays personified Wisdom in an intimate, pre-existent relationship with God during the primordial act of creation. This verse depicts Wisdom not as an abstract quality but as a cherished, active companion who found profound and continuous delight in the divine creative process, reflecting the inherent order, beauty, and joyful harmony embedded in God's original design for the cosmos.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 8:30 is a climactic verse within a profound poetic monologue (Proverbs 8:22-31) where Wisdom speaks in the first person, asserting her eternal nature, divine origin, and indispensable role in the cosmos. The preceding verses (Proverbs 8:22-29) meticulously detail Wisdom's pre-existence, describing her presence before the earth's foundations were laid, as God established the heavens, the deep, the clouds, and the boundaries of the sea. This particular verse transitions from Wisdom's ancient presence to an active, relational engagement, emphasizing her intimate companionship and joyful participation as God brought the universe into being. It serves as a powerful bridge, setting the stage for Wisdom's earnest appeal to humanity in [Proverbs 8:32-36](/proverbs/8-32-36 "Proverbs 8:32-36 - Wisdom's Invitation and Promise"), urging them to find life and favor by embracing her.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of Proverbs, largely attributed to King Solomon, is deeply rooted in the ancient Near Eastern wisdom tradition, which sought to understand the inherent order of the world and how human beings should live in harmony with it. While other ancient cultures had concepts of divine wisdom, Proverbs uniquely personifies Wisdom as a distinct, pre-existent entity directly associated with Yahweh's creative activity. This personification elevates wisdom beyond mere human ingenuity or practical skill, grounding it in the very fabric of creation and the immutable character of God. The cultural setting emphasizes a worldview where divine order undergirds all existence, and true human flourishing and prosperity come from aligning one's life with that divine order, which is embodied by Wisdom.
* **Key Themes:** This verse profoundly contributes to several core themes within the book of Proverbs and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully underscores the **Personification of Wisdom**, presenting her not as an abstract concept but as a living, relational being with personal attributes and emotions. This deepens the understanding of wisdom as something to be actively sought and embraced, rather than merely acquired knowledge. Secondly, it highlights **Wisdom's Intimacy with God**, using language that denotes profound closeness, companionship, and mutual affection, revealing a joyful and harmonious aspect of the divine nature. This intimacy is foundational to understanding God's relational character. Thirdly, the verse subtly points to **Wisdom's Role in Creation**, implying her active involvement or oversight in the divine blueprint, ensuring that creation is imbued with order, purpose, and beauty. This theme connects to the idea that the created order itself testifies to God's wisdom, as seen in passages like [Psalm 19:1-4](/psalms/19-1-4 "Psalm 19:1-4 - The Heavens Declare God's Glory") and [Romans 1:20](/romans/1-20 "Romans 1:20 - God's Invisible Qualities Clearly Seen Through Creation").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **by him (Hebrew, _ʼêtsel'_):** From H681, this word indicates a position "at," "near," or "beside." It signifies immediate proximity and intimate presence, suggesting that Wisdom was not merely observing from a distance but was in close, personal fellowship with God during the creative process.
* **brought up (Hebrew, _ʼâmôwn'_):** From H525, this term is rich with interpretive possibilities. It can imply "skilled" or "architect," suggesting Wisdom's role as a master craftsman or designer involved in the creation process, providing the blueprint or order. Alternatively, it can mean "nursling" or "cherished child," emphasizing a beloved, intimate, and nurtured relationship with God, highlighting companionship and affection. The KJV's "brought up [with him]" leans towards the latter, underscoring the deep, formative bond.
* **daily (Hebrew, _yôwm'_):** From H3117, this term refers to a "day" or "a space of time defined by an associated term," often used adverbially to mean "continually" or "always." Its use here, reinforced by the subsequent "always," emphasizes the constant and uninterrupted nature of Wisdom's presence and delight before God. It signifies a perpetual, ongoing relationship, not an intermittent one.
* **delight (Hebrew, _shaʻshuaʻ'_):** From H8191, this noun conveys a strong sense of "enjoyment" or "pleasure." It signifies that Wisdom was a profound source of joy, amusement, and satisfaction to God. The term speaks to a deep, mutual affection and the joyous atmosphere present during the act of creation, indicating a relational dynamic of profound happiness.
* **rejoicing (Hebrew, _sâchaq'_):** From H7832, this primitive root means "to laugh (in pleasure or detraction)" or "to play." In this context, it describes Wisdom's reciprocal joy and playful delight in God's presence and creative activity. It denotes an unrestrained, exuberant, and positive emotional response, indicating immense pleasure and satisfaction.
* **always (Hebrew, _ʻêth'_):** From H6256, this word refers to "time," especially (adverb with preposition) "now," "when," or "continually." Paired with "daily," it reinforces the perpetual nature of Wisdom's rejoicing, emphasizing that this joy was not fleeting but an enduring characteristic of her relationship with God during the entire creative epoch.
* **before him (Hebrew, _pânîym'_):** From H6440, this plural noun (used singularly) literally means "face" and, with a prepositional prefix, functions as "before" or "in the presence of." It signifies direct, unhindered access and an open, intimate relationship, underscoring that Wisdom's joy was expressed openly and directly in God's immediate presence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then I was by him,"**: This clause establishes Wisdom's immediate and close proximity to God during the creative process. The preposition "by" (Hebrew _ʼêtsel_) indicates a position "near" or "beside," signifying an intimate, personal presence rather than a distant observation. It highlights a relationship of nearness and accessibility.
* **"[as] one brought up [with him]:"**: This phrase further defines the nature of Wisdom's relationship with God. The Hebrew word _ʼâmôwn_ suggests either a "master craftsman" or a "nursling/cherished child." Both interpretations underscore a deep, formative connection: either as a co-laborer in the divine design or as a beloved, nurtured companion, indicating profound intimacy and shared experience within the divine sphere.
* **"and I was daily [his] delight,"**: This clause emphasizes the emotional core of their eternal relationship. Wisdom was a continuous source of profound joy and pleasure (Hebrew _shaʻshuaʻ_) for God. The term "daily" (Hebrew _yôwm_) underscores the perpetual and consistent nature of this divine delight, indicating an unbroken bond of affection and satisfaction.
* **"rejoicing always before him;"**: This final clause describes Wisdom's reciprocal response to this intimate relationship and the creative work. The word for "rejoicing" (Hebrew _sâchaq_) implies playful, joyous, and unrestrained activity. "Always" (Hebrew _ʻêth_) reinforces the continuous nature of this joy, indicating that Wisdom found immense pleasure and satisfaction in God's presence and in witnessing and participating in His creative acts.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 8:30 masterfully employs **Personification**, a central literary device throughout Proverbs 8, by presenting Wisdom as a distinct, sentient being with personal attributes, emotions, and a relational history with God. This transforms an abstract concept into a tangible and relatable figure, inviting the reader to engage with wisdom as a living entity. The verse also utilizes rich **Imagery** to paint a vivid picture of this divine companionship, evoking scenes of intimate presence ("by him"), familial affection ("brought up with him"), and shared, exuberant joy ("daily his delight, rejoicing always"). The repetition inherent in the temporal adverbs "daily" and "always" functions as a powerful form of **Emphasis**, underscoring the perpetual and unwavering nature of Wisdom's delight in God and her reciprocal joy in His presence. This creates a profound sense of eternal harmony, bliss, and co-labor within the divine sphere during the very act of creation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 8:30 offers a profound glimpse into the pre-existent nature of divine Wisdom and its intimate relationship with the Creator. Theologically, it establishes that wisdom is not a human invention or a mere intellectual construct, but an intrinsic aspect of God's very being, present and active from eternity. This pre-existent Wisdom, intimately involved in the cosmic blueprint, ensures that creation is not chaotic but ordered, purposeful, and reflective of divine intelligence and delight. The verse underscores the harmonious and joyful nature of the Godhead, revealing a relational dynamic of mutual pleasure and shared purpose even before the world was formed, laying a foundational understanding of God's character as inherently good, relational, and delighting in His own wise design.

* [Job 28:12-28](/job/28-12-28 "Job 28:12-28 - The Elusiveness and Source of Wisdom")
* [Psalm 104:24](/psalms/104-24 "Psalm 104:24 - God's Wisdom in Creation")
* [1 Corinthians 1:24](/1_corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ, the Power and Wisdom of God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 8:30 invites us to marvel at the profound and joyful intimacy within the Godhead, even before the foundations of the world were laid. It reminds us that true wisdom is not merely intellectual prowess or accumulated knowledge, but a divine attribute, a relational presence that delights God and brings order and beauty to His creation. For us, this means that seeking wisdom is not just about acquiring information, but about aligning ourselves with the very heart and mind of God, engaging in a relationship that brings profound joy and purpose. Just as Wisdom delighted in God's presence and creative work, we are called to find our deepest delight in Him and participate joyfully in His ongoing work in the world, embracing the inherent order and beauty He has woven into life. When we pursue true wisdom, we are pursuing God Himself, and in Him, we find the inexhaustible source of all delight, meaning, and flourishing.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the portrayal of Wisdom in Proverbs 8:30 challenge or expand your understanding of God's nature and character, particularly His relational aspect?**
* **In what practical ways can you cultivate a "daily delight" in God's presence and His work in your own life, mirroring Wisdom's perpetual joy?**
* **Considering Wisdom's profound role in creation, how does recognizing God's inherent wisdom influence your perspective on the world around you, its order, and the challenges you face?**

### FAQ
**What does "one brought up with him" mean in Proverbs 8:30?**

Answer: The phrase "one brought up with him" translates the Hebrew word _ʼâmôwn_ (H525), which carries a dual meaning that enriches our understanding. It can refer to a "master craftsman" or "architect," suggesting Wisdom's active role as a skilled co-laborer or divine assistant in God's creative design, providing the blueprint and order for the universe. Alternatively, it can mean a "nursling" or "cherished child," emphasizing a beloved, intimate, and nurtured relationship, much like a child raised in a household. Both interpretations highlight Wisdom's profound closeness and significance to God during creation, either as a divine associate in the work or a beloved companion in the process. This close relationship underscores the inherent wisdom and order embedded in the created universe, reflecting God's joyful and purposeful design.

**Is the "Wisdom" in Proverbs 8:30 a person or just a poetic device?**

Answer: While "Wisdom" in Proverbs 8 is clearly a **personification**, meaning it's an abstract concept given human-like qualities for poetic and theological emphasis, Christian theology traditionally views this personification as a powerful foreshadowing or pre-incarnate revelation of [Jesus Christ, the eternal Word of God](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - The Word Was With God"). The attributes ascribed to Wisdom—pre-existence before creation, intimate relationship with God, and active involvement in the creation process—parallel those attributed to Christ in the New Testament. For instance, [Colossians 1:15-17](/colossians/1-15-17 "Colossians 1:15-17 - Christ is the Image of the Invisible God and Creator") states that Christ is "the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by him all things were created... all things were created through him and for him." Similarly, [John 1:3](/john/1-3 "John 1:3 - All Things Made Through Him") declares, "Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made." Thus, while a literary device, the personified Wisdom carries profound theological weight, pointing beyond mere abstraction to a divine person who is the very embodiment of God's wisdom.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 8:30 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ. Christian theology consistently identifies the personified Wisdom of Proverbs 8 with the pre-incarnate Christ, the eternal Son of God. Just as Wisdom was "by him" and "brought up with him" in eternal fellowship, [John 1:1](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - In the Beginning Was the Word") declares, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." The "Word" (Logos) is Christ, who was intimately present with the Father from eternity past, sharing in His divine nature and glory. Furthermore, the verse states Wisdom was God's "daily delight, rejoicing always before him." This resonates perfectly with the New Testament's portrayal of the Father's profound love and delight in the Son, as powerfully articulated at Christ's baptism: "[This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased](/matthew/3-17 "Matthew 3:17 - God's Voice at Jesus' Baptism")" (Matthew 3:17). Moreover, the creative activity described in Proverbs 8, where Wisdom is present as the master architect, directly parallels the New Testament's assertion that "[all things were created through him and for him](/colossians/1-16 "Colossians 1:16 - All Things Created Through Christ")" (Colossians 1:16) and that "[through him all things were made](/john/1-3 "John 1:3 - All Things Made Through Him")" (John 1:3). Thus, Proverbs 8:30 is a magnificent Old Testament window into the eternal, joyous, and co-creative relationship between God the Father and God the Son, revealing Christ as the very embodiment of divine Wisdom, through whom all things exist and in whom God delights eternally.

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

John 1:1

¶ In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

John 1:3

All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.

Isaiah 42:1

¶ Behold my servant, whom I uphold; mine elect, [in whom] my soul delighteth; I have put my spirit upon him: he shall bring forth judgment to the Gentiles.

John 1:18

No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared [him].

Matthew 3:17

And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

John 16:28

¶ I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world: again, I leave the world, and go to the Father.

John 12:28

Father, glorify thy name. Then came there a voice from heaven, [saying], I have both glorified [it], and will glorify [it] again.