Proverbs 9:4

Whoso [is] simple, let him turn in hither: [as for] him that wanteth understanding, she saith to him,

Whoso is simple {H6612}, let him turn in {H5493} hither: as for him that wanteth {H2638} understanding {H3820}, she saith {H559} to him,

"Whoever is unsure of himself, turn in here!"To someone weak-willed she says,

“Whoever is simple, let him turn in here!” she says to him who lacks judgment.

Whoso is simple, let him turn in hither: As for him that is void of understanding, she saith to him,

Commentary

Proverbs 9:4 presents a direct and compassionate invitation from personified Wisdom to those who are most in need of guidance and discernment.

Context

This verse is part of a vivid poetic section (Proverbs 9:1-12) where Lady Wisdom is depicted as preparing a feast and sending out her maidens to invite guests. Her call in verse 4 is specifically directed, highlighting her desire to reach those who are vulnerable or lacking in sound judgment. This invitation stands in stark contrast to the deceptive and destructive call of Lady Folly later in the chapter (Proverbs 9:13-18), underscoring the critical choice presented to humanity throughout the Book of Proverbs.

Key Themes

  • The Accessibility of Wisdom: Wisdom does not hide but actively seeks out those who need her, making herself available to everyone, particularly the inexperienced and undiscerning.
  • Target Audience: The Simple and Lacking Understanding: The invitation is extended precisely to those who might otherwise be susceptible to error or harmful influences. It's a call to self-awareness and humility.
  • Invitation to Discernment: Wisdom offers more than just knowledge; she offers understanding, discernment, and the ability to navigate life's complexities with sound judgment.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV uses two key terms to describe Wisdom's target audience:

  • "Simple" (Hebrew: pĕtî, פְּתִי): This term refers to someone who is naive, open-minded, easily persuaded, or inexperienced. They are not necessarily evil, but they lack discernment and are therefore vulnerable to both good and bad influences. Wisdom calls them to choose the path of righteousness.
  • "Wanteth understanding" (Hebrew: ḥăsar-lēḇ, חֲסַר־לֵב): Literally meaning "lacking heart," this phrase signifies a deficiency in moral discernment, practical wisdom, or sound judgment. It's not about intellectual capacity but about the ability to make wise choices and understand consequences.

Related Scriptures

Lady Wisdom's persistent and public call echoes earlier passages, such as when Wisdom cries aloud in the streets (Proverbs 1:20-23). This divine invitation highlights God's desire for all to gain wisdom, a theme also powerfully articulated in Proverbs Chapter 8, where Wisdom proclaims her ancient origins and value.

Practical Application

Proverbs 9:4 serves as a timeless reminder that wisdom is not exclusive to the learned or the privileged. It is offered freely to those who recognize their need for it. For us today, it encourages:

  • Humility: Acknowledging our own "simplicity" or lack of understanding is the first step towards acquiring true wisdom.
  • Active Seeking: Just as Wisdom calls out, we must actively turn towards her, seeking God's guidance through His Word and prayer.
  • Discernment: In a world full of competing voices and ideologies, this verse emphasizes the critical importance of choosing the path of truth and sound judgment over naive acceptance or foolish decisions.
Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 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 — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Proverbs 6:32

    [But] whoso committeth adultery with a woman lacketh understanding: he [that] doeth it destroyeth his own soul.

  • Proverbs 9:16

    Whoso [is] simple, let him turn in hither: and [as for] him that wanteth understanding, she saith to him,

  • Proverbs 8:5

    O ye simple, understand wisdom: and, ye fools, be ye of an understanding heart.

  • Matthew 11:25

    ¶ At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes.

  • Psalms 19:7

    ¶ The law of the LORD [is] perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD [is] sure, making wise the simple.

  • Proverbs 1:22

    How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge?

  • Revelation 3:17

    Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:
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