TRV
Translation
King James Version
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.
Complete Jewish Bible
the first and foremost point of wisdom is the fear of ADONAI; all those living by it gain good common sense. His praise stands forever.
Berean Standard Bible
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow His precepts gain rich understanding. His praise endures forever!
American Standard Version
The fear of Jehovah is the beginning of wisdom; A good understanding have all they that dohis commandments: His praise endureth for ever.
World English Bible Messianic
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom. All those who do his work have a good understanding. His praise endures forever!
Geneva Bible (1599)
The beginning of wisedome is the feare of the Lord: all they that obserue them, haue good vnderstanding: his praise endureth for euer.
Young's Literal Translation
The beginning of wisdom is fear of Jehovah, Good understanding have all doing them, His praise is standing for ever!
In the KJVVerse 15,804 of 31,102
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Commentary on Psalms 111 verses 6–10
6 ¶ He hath shewed his people the power of his works, that he may give them the heritage of the heathen.
7 The works of his hands are verity and judgment; all his commandments are sure.
8 They stand fast for ever and ever, and are done in truth and uprightness.
9 He sent redemption unto his people: he hath commanded his covenant for ever: holy and reverend is his name.
10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.
We are here taught to give glory to God,
I. For the great things he has done for his people, for his people Israel, of old and of late: He has shown his people the power of his works (Psa 111:6), in what he has wrought for them; many a time he has given proofs of his omnipotence, and shown them what he can do, and that there is nothing too hard for him to do. Two things are specified to show the power of his works: - 1. The possession God gave to Israel in the land of Canaan, that he might give them, or in giving them, the heritage of the heathen. This he did in Joshua's time, when the seven nations were subdued, and in David's time, when the neighbouring nations were many of them brought into subjection to Israel and became tributaries to David. Herein God showed his sovereignty, in disposing of kingdoms as he pleases, and his might, in making good his disposals. If God will make the heritage of the heathen to be the heritage of Israel, who can either arraign his counsel or stay his hand? 2. The many deliverances which he wrought for his people when by their iniquities they had sold themselves into the hand of their enemies (Psa 111:9): He sent redemption unto his people, not only out of Egypt at first, but often afterwards; and these redemptions were typical of the great redemption which in the fulness of time was to be wrought out by the Lord Jesus, that redemption in Jerusalem which so many waited for.
II. For the stability both of his word and of his works, which assure us of the great things he will do for them. 1. What God has done shall never be undone. He will not undo it himself, and men and devils cannot (Psa 111:7): The works of his hand are verity and judgment (Psa 111:8), that is, they are done in truth and uprightness; all he does is consonant to the eternal rules and reasons of equity, all according to the counsel of his wisdom and the purpose of his will, all well done and therefore there is nothing to be altered or amended, but his works are firm and unchangeable. Upon the beginning of his works we may depend for the perfecting of them; work that is done properly will last, will neither go to decay nor sink under the stress that is laid upon it. 2. What God has said shall never be unsaid: All his commandments are sure, all straight and therefore all steady. His purposes, the rule of his actions, shall all have their accomplishment: Has he spoken, and will he not make it good? No doubt he will; whether he commands light or darkness, it is done as he commands. His precepts, the rule of our actions, are unquestionably just and good, and therefore unchangeable and not to be repealed; his promises and threatenings are all sure, and will be made good; nor shall the unbelief of man make either the one or the other of no effect. They are established, and therefore they stand fast for ever and ever, and the scripture cannot be broken. The wise God is never put upon new counsels, nor obliged to take new measures, either in his laws or in his providences. All is said, as all is done, in truth and uprightness, and therefore it is immutable. Men's folly and falsehood make them unstable in all their ways, but infinite wisdom and truth for ever exclude retraction and revocation: He has commanded his covenant for ever. God's covenant is commanded, for he has made it as one that has an incontestable authority to prescribe both what we must do and what we must expect, and an unquestionable ability to perform both what he has promised in the blessings of the covenant and what he has threatened in the curses of it, Psa 105:8.
III. For the setting up and establishing of religion among men. Because holy and reverend is his name, and the fear of him is the beginning of wisdom, therefore his praise endureth for ever, that is, he is to be everlastingly praised. 1. Because the discoveries of religion tend so much to his honour. Review what he has made known of himself in his word and in his works, and you will see, and say, that God is great and greatly to be feared; for his name is holy, his infinite purity and rectitude appear in all that whereby he has made himself known, and because it is holy therefore it is reverend, and to be thought of and mentioned with a holy awe. Note, What is holy is reverend; the angels have an eye to God's holiness when they cover their faces before him, and nothing is more man's honour than his sanctification. It is in his holy places that God appears most terrible, Psa 68:35; Lev 10:3. 2. Because the dictates of religion tend so much to man's happiness. We have reason to praise God that the matter is so well contrived that our reverence of him and obedience to him are as much our interest as they are our duty. (1.) Our reverence of him is so: The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. It is not only reasonable that we should fear God, because his name is reverend and his nature is holy, but it is advantageous to us. It is wisdom; it will direct us to speak and act as becomes us, in a consistency with ourselves, and for our own benefit. It is the head of wisdom, that is (as we read it), it is the beginning of wisdom. Men can never begin to be wise till they begin to fear God; all true wisdom takes its rise from true religion, and has its foundation in it. Or, as some understand it, it is the chief wisdom, and the most excellent, the first in dignity. It is the principal wisdom, and the principal of wisdom, to worship God and give honour to him as our Father and Master. Those manage well who always act under the government of his holy fear. (2.) Our obedience to him is so: A good understanding have all those that do his commandments. Where the fear of the Lord rules in the heart there will be a constant conscientious care to keep his commandments, not to talk of them, but to do them; and such have a good understanding, that is, [1.] They are well understood; their obedience is graciously accepted as a plain indication of their mind that they do indeed fear God. Compare Pro 3:4, So shalt thou find favour and good understanding. God and man will look upon those as meaning well, and approve of them, who make conscience of their duty, though they have their mistakes. What is honestly intended shall be well taken. [2.] They understand well. First, It is a sign that they do understand well. The most obedient are accepted as the most intelligent; those understand themselves and their interest best that make God's law their rule and are in every thing ruled by it. A great understanding those have that know God's commandments and can discourse learnedly of them, but a good understanding have those that do them and walk according to them. Secondly, It is the way to understand better: A good understanding are they to all that do them; the fear of the Lord and the laws of that give men a good understanding, and are able to make them wise unto salvation. If any man will do his will, he shall know more and more clearly of the doctrine of Christ, Joh 7:17. Good success have all those that do them (so the margin), according to what was promised to Joshua if he would observe to do according to the law. Jos 1:8, Then thou shalt make thy way prosperous and shalt have good success. We have reason to praise God, to praise him for ever, for putting man into such a fair way to happiness. Some apply the last words rather to the good man who fears the Lord than to the good God: His praise endures for ever. It is not of men perhaps, but it is of God (Rom 2:29), and that praise which is of God endures for ever when the praise of men is withered and gone.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 6–10. Public domain.
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TertullianAD 220
PRESCRIPTIONS AGAINST HERETICS 43
It has also been a subject of discussion, how extremely frequent is the intercourse that heretics hold with magicians, with charlatans, with astrologers, with philosophers; and the reason is that they are people who devote themselves to curious questions. “Seek, and you shall find,” is everywhere in their minds. Thus, from the very nature of their conduct may be estimated the quality of their faith. In their discipline we have an index of their doctrine. They say that God is not to be feared; therefore all things are in their view free and unchecked. Where, however, is God not feared, except where he is not, there truth also is not. Where there is no truth, then, naturally enough, there is also such a discipline as the heretics. But where God is, there exists “the fear of God, which is the beginning of wisdom.” Where the fear of God is, there is seriousness, an honorable and yet thoughtful diligence, as well as an anxious carefulness and a well-considered admission [to the sacred ministry], a safely guarded communion, promotion after good service, a scrupulous submission [to authority], a devout attendance, a modest gait, a united church and God in all things.
Gregory of NazianzusAD 390
ON HIS FATHER’S SILENCE, ORATION 16:3
Fairer in my eyes is the beauty that we can gaze on than that which is painted in words; of more value the wealth that our hands can hold, than that which is imagined in our dreams; and more real the wisdom of which we are convinced by deeds, than that which is set forth in splendid language. For “a good understanding,” he said, “have all they who act accordingly,” not they who proclaim it. Time is the best touchstone of this wisdom, and “the gray head is a crown of glory.”
Ambrose of MilanAD 397
On the Duties of the Clergy 1.1
I think I shall not seem to be taking too much on myself, if, in the midst of my children, I yield to my desire to teach, seeing that the master of humility himself has said, “Come, you children, listen to me: I will teach you the fear of the Lord.” Therein one may observe both the humility and the grace of his reverence for God. For in saying “the fear of the Lord,” which seems to be common to all, he has described the chief mark of reverence for God. As, however, fear itself is the beginning of wisdom and the source of blessedness—for they that fear the Lord are blessed—he has plainly marked himself out as the teacher for instruction in wisdom and the guide to the attainment of blessedness.
Augustine of HippoAD 430
SERMON 248:5
Nobody fulfills these ten commandments by his own strength of character, unless helped by the grace of God. So if nobody fulfills the law by his own strength of character, unless God helps with his Spirit; now call to mind how the Holy Spirit is presented to us under the number seven; as the holy prophet says that a person is to be filled with “the Spirit of God, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, of counsel and courage, of knowledge and piety, with the Spirit of the fear of the Lord.” These seven activities present the Holy Spirit under the number seven; he, coming down on us as it were from above, begins from wisdom and ends with fear. We, however, going up from below, begin from fear and are perfected in wisdom. “The beginning of wisdom,” after all, “is the fear of the Lord.”
Augustine of HippoAD 430
Exposition on Psalm 111
..."The fear of the Lord," therefore, "is the beginning of wisdom." "Understanding is good" [Psalm 111:10]. Who gainsays? But to understand, and not to do, is dangerous. It is "good," therefore, "to those that do thereafter." Nor let it lift up the mind unto pride; for, "the praise of Him," the fear of whom is the beginning of wisdom, "endures for ever:" and this will be the reward, this the end, this the everlasting station and abode. There are found the true commandments, made fast for ever and ever; here is the very heritage of the New Covenant commanded for ever. "One thing," he says, "I have desired of the Lord, which I will require: even that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life." For, "blessed are they that dwell in the house" of the Lord: "they will be always praising" Him; for "His praise endures for ever."
Desert FathersAD 500
The Desert Fathers, Sayings of the Early Christian Monks
He also said, ‘The beginning and the end is the fear of the Lord. For it is written, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Ps. 111:10) and, when Abraham built an altar the Lord said to him, “Now I know that you fear God” (Gen. 22:12).’
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
Psalms 111:10 masterfully encapsulates the essence of true wisdom and understanding, presenting them not as mere intellectual pursuits but as profound outcomes of a right relationship with God. This concluding verse of a hymn of praise declares that reverent awe for the LORD is the foundational starting point for all genuine wisdom, leading to practical discernment for those who diligently obey His commands. Ultimately, it affirms that the praise due to God, the source of this wisdom and the object of our obedience, is eternal and enduring, echoing His own everlasting faithfulness and righteousness.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Psalms 111:10 effectively employs several literary devices to convey its profound message with clarity and impact. The entire psalm is structured as an Acrostic, where each line or half-line begins with successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet. This sophisticated device not only aids memorization but also suggests a sense of completeness, order, and divine perfection, reinforcing the idea that God's works and the wisdom derived from them are perfectly ordered and comprehensive. Within the verse itself, Parallelism is prominently evident, particularly Synonymous Parallelism, where "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom" is echoed and reinforced by "a good understanding have all they that do his commandments." These two clauses express similar ideas using different but related terms, emphasizing the interconnectedness of reverence, wisdom, obedience, and understanding. The verse also functions as a powerful Summary Statement or Inclusio for the entire Psalm 111, bringing the themes of God's greatness and the proper human response to a profound theological conclusion. Furthermore, the didactic nature of the verse, explicitly teaching a foundational truth, gives it a distinct Proverbial quality, akin to the wisdom literature it echoes.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 111:10 profoundly integrates the concepts of knowledge, piety, and practical living, asserting that true wisdom is not a secular intellectual pursuit but an outcome of a right relationship with God. It dismantles any false dichotomy between spiritual devotion and practical discernment, demonstrating that genuine understanding flows directly from reverent submission to the Divine. This verse underscores the biblical principle that knowing God (which involves fearing Him) is inseparable from obeying God, and that this obedience is the pathway to a deeper, experiential knowledge of His character and will. It highlights that God's commands are not arbitrary rules but are designed to lead humanity into a flourishing life, characterized by discernment and ultimately, by perpetual praise of the Creator.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 111:10 offers timeless guidance for cultivating a life of genuine wisdom and spiritual flourishing. It challenges us to examine the very foundation of our understanding: do we truly begin with a profound, reverent awe of God? This "fear of the LORD" is not a fleeting emotion but a settled disposition of the heart that acknowledges God's supreme authority, holiness, and boundless love. Such reverence naturally leads to a desire to obey His commandments, recognizing that His instructions are for our good and His glory, and that they are the very pathway to life. As we actively strive to live in alignment with His revealed will, our spiritual understanding deepens, our discernment sharpens, and we experience the practical benefits of His wisdom in every facet of life. This journey of growing in wisdom through reverence and obedience culminates in a life that instinctively offers enduring praise to God, reflecting His eternal worthiness and the transformative power of His truth within us.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Is "fear of the LORD" about being scared of God?
Answer: Not in the sense of terror or dread. The "fear of the LORD" (yirʼat Yahweh) in biblical wisdom literature primarily signifies a profound, reverent awe, respect, and humble submission to God's majesty, power, and holiness. It is an attitude of worshipful adoration that recognizes God's supreme authority and leads to a desire to obey His will and depart from evil, as seen in Proverbs 8:13. This fear is foundational to a right relationship with Him, fostering trust and obedience rather than paralyzing dread.
How does obedience to God's commandments lead to "good understanding"?
Answer: Obedience is not merely a legalistic duty but an experiential pathway to deeper understanding. As we actively "do his commandments," we gain practical insight and discernment that cannot be acquired through intellectual study alone. Living out God's truth in daily life reveals its wisdom, its benefits, and its transformative power. It's akin to learning a skill: theoretical knowledge is helpful, but true mastery and understanding come through consistent practice. Jesus Himself taught that if anyone chooses to do God's will, they will know whether the teaching is from God or whether He speaks on His own John 7:17. This practical application solidifies and deepens comprehension.
Is wisdom only for scholars or theologians?
Answer: No, Psalms 111:10 explicitly states that "a good understanding have all they that do his commandments." This indicates that true wisdom and understanding are accessible to all who choose to live in reverent obedience to God, regardless of their academic background or intellectual prowess. While scholars may delve into theological depths, the practical wisdom for living a righteous and flourishing life is available to every believer. The New Testament similarly encourages all believers to seek wisdom, promising that God gives generously to those who ask James 1:5. It is a wisdom that manifests in practical, ethical living, characterized by purity, peace, gentleness, and mercy James 3:17, making it relevant for every aspect of life.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 111:10 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is the very embodiment of divine wisdom and the perfect example of reverent obedience. He is not merely a wise teacher, but "Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God" 1 Corinthians 1:24. In Him, all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden Colossians 2:3. Jesus perfectly lived out the "fear of the LORD," demonstrating complete reverence and humble submission to the Father's will throughout His earthly ministry, even to the point of death on the cross Philippians 2:8. He perfectly "did His commandments," fulfilling the Law and the Prophets not by abolishing them, but by embodying their true spirit and purpose Matthew 5:17. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Christ has become for us "wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption" 1 Corinthians 1:30. Believers, united with Christ, are granted the Holy Spirit, who is the "Spirit of wisdom and revelation" Ephesians 1:17, enabling them to walk in the "good understanding" that comes from obeying God out of love and gratitude, rather than mere fear of punishment. Thus, the praise that "endureth for ever" is ultimately magnified through Christ, who perfectly glorified the Father and through whom all creation will eternally offer praise Revelation 5:13.