### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bîynâh**, represented by `{{H998}}`, denotes **understanding**, knowledge, and wisdom. It appears 38 times across 38 unique verses in the Bible. Derived from the root verb **bîyn** `{{H995}}`, which means "to separate mentally (or distinguish)," **bîynâh** carries the sense of discernment, insight, and the ability to comprehend meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H998}}` is used in several key ways. It is presented as a spiritual quality given by God, as the "spirit of wisdom and **understanding**" is a gift from the Spirit of the LORD [[Isaiah 11:2]]. This divine understanding is contrasted with human self-reliance in the warning to "lean not unto thine own **understanding**" [[Proverbs 3:5]]. It also signifies practical discernment, as shown by the children of Issachar who had **understanding** of the times to know what Israel ought to do [[1 Chronicles 12:32]]. Furthermore, it is essential for perceiving divine revelation, as when Daniel had **understanding** of the vision [[Daniel 10:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the scope of **understanding**:
* `{{H995}}` **bîyn** (to understand): This is the root verb from which `{{H998}}` is formed. It refers to the act of perceiving, considering, or discerning, as in the goal "to perceive the words of **understanding**" [[Proverbs 1:2]].
* `{{H2451}}` **chokmâh** (wisdom): This term is frequently paired with **bîynâh**. True wisdom and understanding are presented as inseparable pursuits, with the fear of the LORD being the beginning of **wisdom**, and the knowledge of the holy being **understanding** [[Proverbs 9:10]].
* `{{H1847}}` **daʻath** (knowledge): Often appearing with wisdom and understanding, **daʻath** completes a triad of spiritual and intellectual virtues. The Spirit of the LORD provides a spirit of **knowledge** alongside wisdom and **understanding** [[Isaiah 11:2]].
* `{{H8394}}` **tâbûwn** (intelligence, understanding): Used as a close parallel, this term reinforces the concept of comprehension and reason. Scripture encourages one to cry after knowledge and lift up a voice for **understanding** [[Proverbs 2:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H998}}` is significant, highlighting the nature of true insight.
* **A Divine Gift:** Understanding is not simply a human achievement but a gift from God. The LORD is the one who has given **understanding** to the heart [[Job 38:36]], and it is something to be sought from Him [[1 Chronicles 22:12]].
* **The Limit of Human Insight:** Scripture warns against relying solely on one's own faculties. God can cause the **understanding** of the prudent to be hidden [[Isaiah 29:14]], emphasizing dependency on a divine source.
* **The Foundation in Godly Fear:** True **understanding** is inextricably linked to one's relationship with God. It is equated with departing from evil [[Job 28:28]] and is defined as "the knowledge of the holy" [[Proverbs 9:10]].
### Summary
In summary, **bîynâh** `{{H998}}` is a crucial biblical concept representing a form of understanding that transcends mere intellect. It is a faculty of discernment, a gift from God, and is rooted in a reverential relationship with Him. Whether for practical guidance in life [[Proverbs 9:6]], interpreting revelation [[Daniel 9:22]], or simply departing from evil [[Job 28:28]], this God-given **understanding** is presented as essential for a righteous and perceptive life.
TRV