Proverbs 9:9

KJV

Give [instruction] to a wise [man], and he will be yet wiser: teach a just [man], and he will increase in learning.

KJV (with Strong's)

Give {H5414} instruction to a wise {H2450} man, and he will be yet wiser {H2449}: teach {H3045} a just {H6662} man, and he will increase {H3254} in learning {H3948}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Give to a wise man, and he grows still wiser; teach a righteous man, and he will learn still more.

Berean Standard Bible

Instruct a wise man, and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man, and he will increase his learning.

American Standard Version

Giveinstructionto a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: Teach a righteous man, and he will increase in learning.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 9:9 articulates a profound truth regarding the nature of genuine wisdom and righteousness: they are not static attainments but dynamic processes characterized by an insatiable appetite for further instruction and growth. The verse posits that individuals who already possess a foundational understanding of wisdom and moral uprightness are precisely those most receptive to, and most capable of benefiting from, additional teaching. This receptivity leads to an exponential increase in their discernment and understanding, underscoring the principle that true wisdom is humble, teachable, and ever-expanding.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 9:9 is strategically positioned within the climactic chapter of the book's opening section (Proverbs 1-9), which masterfully personifies Wisdom and Folly as competing hosts inviting humanity to their respective feasts. The preceding verses, [Proverbs 9:7-8](/proverbs/9-7-8 "Proverbs 9:7-8 - The Contrast Between Scoffers and the Wise"), draw a sharp contrast: attempting to rebuke a scoffer yields hatred and harm, while offering correction to a wise person elicits love and gratitude. Verse 9 directly follows this, illustrating the positive and fruitful outcome of offering instruction to those who are already wise and just. It serves as a powerful affirmation of the teachability of the discerning heart, standing in stark opposition to the incorrigibility of the foolish. The chapter as a whole culminates the invitation to choose the path of wisdom, emphasizing the profound difference between those who embrace it and those who reject it, highlighting that receptivity is a hallmark of the truly wise.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of Proverbs belongs to the genre of ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature, which flourished in various cultures, including Egypt and Mesopotamia. In ancient Israel, wisdom was not merely intellectual knowledge but a practical skill for living a righteous and flourishing life in covenant with God. Sages, often associated with royal courts or family instruction, transmitted wisdom through proverbs, parables, and discourses. The emphasis on "instruction" (Hebrew: *musar*) in this verse reflects the pedagogical methods of the time, where moral and practical guidance was imparted through teaching, discipline, and correction. The concept of a "wise man" (*chakham*) and a "just man" (*tsaddiq*) represented the ideal individuals within Israelite society, embodying both discernment and ethical integrity, rooted in the foundational principle that [the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the Lord"). This societal ideal underscored the value placed on character development alongside intellectual acumen.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully articulates several key themes pervasive throughout the book of Proverbs. Firstly, it highlights **Receptivity to Instruction** as a defining characteristic of true wisdom. Unlike the scoffer who despises correction, the wise person actively seeks and embraces it, understanding that genuine growth comes through humility and an open mind. Secondly, it emphasizes **Continuous Growth and Progress**. Wisdom and righteousness are presented not as static achievements but as dynamic journeys. The "wise man" will become "wiser," and the "just man" will "increase in learning," illustrating a lifelong process of deepening understanding and moral refinement. This aligns with the proverb that [the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, which shines brighter and brighter until full day](/proverbs/4-18 "Proverbs 4:18 - The Path of the Righteous"). Thirdly, the verse subtly underscores the **Intrinsic Connection Between Wisdom and Righteousness**. The "wise man" and "just man" are presented in parallel, suggesting that genuine wisdom naturally leads to righteous living, and a righteous life fosters an environment conducive to deeper wisdom, creating a virtuous cycle of spiritual development.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **wise (Hebrew, _châkâm'_):** (H2450) This term denotes more than mere intellectual acuity; it signifies a person who is intelligent, skillful, or artful. It describes an individual possessing practical discernment and living in accordance with divine principles. It implies a disposition that is open to understanding and applying truth, not just accumulating facts, reflecting a life lived skillfully.
* **teach (Hebrew, _yâdaʻ'_):** (H3045) A primitive root meaning "to know," but with a vast range of applications. In this context, it refers to causing someone to know, or instructing them. It implies imparting knowledge, understanding, or skill, often through observation, care, or direct guidance. The act of "teaching" here is effective because the recipient is already predisposed to "know" and receive.
* **learning (Hebrew, _leqach'_):** (H3948) Properly, "something received," referring specifically to instruction or doctrine. While it can also imply "fair speech" or "inveiglement" in a negative sense, here it clearly denotes the positive acquisition of knowledge and insight. It represents the content of instruction that is absorbed and integrated by the receptive individual, leading to mental and spiritual growth.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Give instruction to a wise man,"**: This opening clause sets the premise, highlighting the active role of the teacher or dispenser of wisdom. The term "instruction" (Hebrew: *musar*) encompasses discipline, correction, and moral guidance, indicating formative teaching that shapes character and understanding. The recipient is specifically identified as "a wise man," implying someone who already possesses a foundation of discernment and a teachable spirit, making them fertile ground for further input.
* **"and he will be yet wiser:"**: This is the immediate, positive consequence of instructing a wise person. The Hebrew verb for "wiser" (related to *châkam*, H2449) suggests an increase in wisdom, not just quantitatively but qualitatively. It implies a deepening of insight, a sharpening of discernment, and a greater capacity for living skillfully and righteously. The wise person's inherent receptivity acts as a catalyst for exponential growth, building upon their existing foundation.
* **"teach a just man,"**: This clause parallels the first, shifting the focus slightly from "wise" to "just" (Hebrew: *tsaddiq*, H6662). A "just man" is one who is righteous, upright, and lives in conformity with God's commands and ethical principles. The repetition of the concept of imparting knowledge ("teach," *yâdaʻ*) reinforces the idea that moral uprightness, like wisdom, thrives on continued input and guidance, demonstrating a holistic approach to spiritual development.
* **"and he will increase in learning."**: Mirroring the second clause, this phrase describes the outcome for the just man. The verb "increase" (Hebrew: *yâçaph*, H3254) means to add or augment, suggesting a continuous, ongoing growth. "Learning" (*leqach*) refers to the acquisition of deeper knowledge and insight. This signifies an expanding capacity for understanding divine truth and applying it to life, affirming that righteousness is not static but a journey of continuous intellectual and spiritual development, where each lesson builds upon the last.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 9:9 masterfully employs **Synthetic Parallelism**, a common and powerful feature in Hebrew poetry. The second line ("and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning") does not merely repeat the first line's thought but develops and expands upon it. The initial concept of instructing a "wise man" leading to greater wisdom is reinforced and broadened by the parallel idea of teaching a "just man" resulting in increased learning. This parallelism emphasizes the dual nature of growth—intellectual (becoming wiser) and moral/experiential (increasing in learning)—and underscores the consistent principle that receptivity to instruction is the key to advancement for those already on the right path. The verse also implicitly uses **Contrast**, as it stands in direct opposition to the preceding verses ([Proverbs 9:7-8](/proverbs/9-7-8 "Proverbs 9:7-8 - The Futility of Rebuke for Scoffers")) which describe the futility and negative consequences of instructing a scoffer. This juxtaposition highlights the profound difference in outcomes based on the recipient's disposition and willingness to learn.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 9:9 powerfully illustrates the theological principle that spiritual and intellectual growth is an ongoing, dynamic process, particularly for those whose hearts are already inclined towards God's truth. It reveals that God's wisdom is not a finite commodity to be acquired once, but a wellspring from which the humble and righteous continually draw deeper understanding. This verse underscores divine pedagogy: God continues to reveal Himself and His ways to those who are receptive, building upon the foundation of their existing wisdom and righteousness. It challenges the notion of spiritual complacency, asserting that true wisdom fosters an insatiable desire for more of God's truth, leading to a progressive transformation of character and knowledge. This continuous growth is a hallmark of a vibrant relationship with the divine.

* [Matthew 13:12](/matthew/13-12 "Matthew 13:12 - To Those Who Have, More Will Be Given")
* [James 1:5](/james/1-5 "James 1:5 - Asking God for Wisdom")
* [2 Peter 3:18](/2_peter/3-18 "2 Peter 3:18 - Grow in the Grace and Knowledge of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 9:9 serves as a profound mirror, inviting us to examine the posture of our own hearts towards instruction and growth. It challenges us to cultivate a spirit of humility and teachability, recognizing that true wisdom is never static but always expanding. In a world that often values self-sufficiency and fixed knowledge, this verse calls us to embrace a lifelong journey of learning, especially from God's Word and from those He has gifted to teach. It encourages us to be eager recipients of correction and new insights, understanding that our capacity for wisdom and righteousness grows precisely as we remain open and receptive. For leaders and mentors, it offers a strategic insight: while all should be taught, the most fruitful investment of time and energy may often be directed towards those who already demonstrate a hunger for truth and a humble spirit, as their receptivity multiplies the impact of the teaching, fostering genuine discipleship.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life—spiritual, intellectual, or relational—do you find yourself most resistant to instruction or correction? Why?**
* **How does your current approach to learning align with the idea of continuous growth described in this proverb? Are you actively seeking to "increase in learning"?**
* **Considering the contrast with the scoffer ([Proverbs 9:7-8](/proverbs/9-7-8 "Proverbs 9:7-8 - The Futility of Rebuke for Scoffers")), what practical steps can you take to cultivate a more "wise" and "just" disposition that welcomes instruction?**
* **How might you better invest your time and energy in discipling or mentoring others, focusing on those who demonstrate genuine receptivity to God's truth?**

### FAQ
**Does "wise man" imply that only men can be wise or receive instruction?**

Answer: No, the use of "man" (Hebrew: *'ish*) in this context is a generic term for humanity and does not exclude women. Wisdom literature, including Proverbs, frequently addresses both sons and daughters, and the principles of wisdom are universally applicable. The book of Proverbs itself personifies wisdom as "Lady Wisdom" in [Proverbs 8](/proverbs/8 "Proverbs 8 - The Excellence of Wisdom"), underscoring that wisdom is accessible to all who seek it, regardless of gender. The verse emphasizes the *disposition* of the individual—whether wise or just—rather than their gender or any other demographic characteristic.

**What is the difference between "instruction" and "learning" in this verse?**

Answer: "Instruction" (Hebrew: *musar*) refers to the act of imparting discipline, correction, or moral guidance from the teacher's perspective. It is the formative teaching that shapes character and understanding, often implying a proactive effort to guide. "Learning" (Hebrew: *leqach*) refers to the content that is received and the process of acquiring deeper knowledge and insight from the student's perspective. So, instruction is what is given, and learning is what is gained and integrated by the receptive individual. The verse highlights that the *giving* of instruction to the *wise* results in their *increasing* in *learning*, demonstrating a dynamic interplay between teaching and receptivity.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 9:9 finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is the very embodiment of divine Wisdom. While the proverb speaks of human teachers imparting instruction, the New Testament reveals that true wisdom comes from God and is perfectly revealed in Christ. As [1 Corinthians 1:30](/1_corinthians/1-30 "1 Corinthians 1:30 - Christ Our Wisdom, Righteousness, Sanctification, and Redemption") declares, Christ "has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption." The "wise man" and "just man" of Proverbs are those who are receptive to truth, and in the New Covenant, this receptivity is most profoundly directed towards Christ. Those who come to Him with humble hearts, acknowledging their need for His teaching, are not merely made wise but are continually transformed by His Spirit into His likeness, growing in the "knowledge of God" ([Colossians 1:10](/colossians/1-10 "Colossians 1:10 - Growing in the Knowledge of God")). Jesus Himself taught that [to those who have, more will be given](/matthew/13-12 "Matthew 13:12 - To Those Who Have, More Will Be Given"), a principle echoed in this proverb and powerfully demonstrated in the spiritual growth of His disciples. The truly "just" are those justified by faith in Christ ([Romans 5:1](/romans/5-1 "Romans 5:1 - Justification by Faith")), and as they walk in Him, they are continually taught by the Holy Spirit, leading to an ever-increasing understanding of God's will and a deeper conformity to the wisdom of Christ ([John 16:13](/john/16-13 "John 16:13 - The Spirit of Truth Will Guide You Into All Truth")). Thus, Proverbs 9:9 foreshadows the continuous spiritual growth and increasing wisdom granted to those who are in Christ, who is our wisdom and righteousness.

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 1:5

A wise [man] will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels:

Matthew 13:11

He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.

Matthew 13:12

For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath.

1 John 5:13

These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.

Proverbs 25:12

[As] an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, [so is] a wise reprover upon an obedient ear.

1 John 2:20

¶ But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things.

1 John 2:21

I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth.