Proverbs 8:33

Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not.

Hear {H8085} instruction {H4148}, and be wise {H2449}, and refuse {H6544} it not.

Hear instruction, and grow wise; do not refuse it.

Listen to instruction and be wise; do not ignore it.

Hear instruction, and be wise, And refuse it not.

Proverbs 8:33 serves as a concise yet profound exhortation from personified Wisdom, urging listeners to embrace her teachings for a life of discernment and understanding.

Context of Proverbs 8:33

This verse is found within Proverbs chapter 8, where Wisdom is presented as a divine figure, calling out publicly to humanity. She describes her noble origin (being present with God at creation) and her immense value, declaring blessings upon those who find her and heed her voice. Verse 33 specifically summarizes her appeal: the path to true wisdom begins with an open ear and a receptive heart to the guidance she offers, in stark contrast to the destructive path of folly.

Key Themes

  • The Primacy of Listening: The command "Hear instruction" emphasizes that wisdom is not inherent but acquired through active listening and receptiveness. It implies paying attention to guidance, whether from God's Word, wise counsel, or life's lessons.
  • Instruction as the Path to Wisdom: The verse directly links receiving instruction with becoming wise. This 'instruction' (Hebrew: musar) encompasses discipline, moral training, and correction. It's the disciplined application of truth that leads to genuine understanding and practical skill in living righteously.
  • The Peril of Refusal: The concluding phrase, "and refuse it not," highlights the critical choice presented to humanity. To reject or ignore wisdom's call is to choose folly, leading to negative consequences and hindering one's potential for a blessed life. This echoes the warning found in Proverbs 1:7, which states that fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "instruction" is musar (מוּסָר), which carries a strong connotation of discipline, correction, and moral training. It's not merely intellectual information but guidance intended to shape character and conduct. To "be wise" comes from the root chakham (חָכַם), signifying practical wisdom and skill in living, discerning right from wrong, and applying knowledge effectively. The phrase "refuse it not" uses the verb para (פָּרַע), meaning to let go, abandon, or reject, underscoring the active choice involved in turning away from beneficial guidance.

Practical Application

For believers today, Proverbs 8:33 is a timeless call to humility and teachability. It encourages us to:

  • Actively Seek and Receive God's Word: Just as wisdom calls out, God's truth is available through Scripture. We are called to "hear" it, not just passively, but with an intent to obey and apply.
  • Embrace Discipline and Correction: True wisdom often comes through the refining process of discipline, whether self-imposed or received from others. It means being open to feedback and correction that helps us grow.
  • Avoid Complacency and Stubbornness: The temptation to ignore or reject sound advice, especially when it challenges our comfort or preconceived notions, is strong. This verse warns against such stubbornness, reminding us that wisdom's benefits are only for those who embrace her. As Proverbs 4:7 declares, "Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom."

By heeding instruction and refusing to turn away from it, we align ourselves with God's design for a flourishing and purposeful life.

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 4:1

    ¶ Hear, ye children, the instruction of a father, and attend to know understanding.

  • Proverbs 5:1

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

  • Proverbs 1:8

    My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother:

  • Psalms 81:11

    But my people would not hearken to my voice; and Israel would none of me.

  • Psalms 81:12

    So I gave them up unto their own hearts' lust: [and] they walked in their own counsels.

  • Proverbs 1:2

    To know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding;

  • Proverbs 1:3

    To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity;

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