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Proverbs 1:6

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To understand a proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings.

To understand {H995} a proverb {H4912}, and the interpretation {H4426}; the words {H1697} of the wise {H2450}, and their dark sayings {H2420}.

he will understand proverbs, obscure expressions, the sayings and riddles of the wise.

by understanding the proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise.

To understand a proverb, and a figure, The words of the wise, and their dark sayings.

Commentary

Proverbs 1:6 serves as a direct extension of the introduction to the entire book of Proverbs, outlining the specific objectives for the reader. Following the general aims of gaining wisdom and instruction (as detailed in Proverbs 1:2-5), this verse narrows the focus to the practical skill of understanding the very forms in which wisdom is presented.

Context

This verse is part of the programmatic statement of the book of Proverbs (Proverbs 1:1-7), which establishes the book's purpose and audience. After declaring the book's origin and general benefits for the wise and the simple, verse 6 specifies the kind of understanding that is sought. It's not just about accumulating facts, but about developing the capacity to decipher and apply profound truths conveyed in various forms of ancient wisdom literature.

Key Themes

  • Understanding and Discernment: The primary theme is the pursuit of deep comprehension. It emphasizes moving beyond surface-level reading to grasp the true meaning and implications of wise sayings. This requires discernment, a spiritual and intellectual capacity to distinguish truth and apply it correctly.
  • Interpretation of Wisdom: The verse highlights that wisdom often comes in forms that require careful thought and interpretation. It anticipates that some of the sayings will be concise, figurative, or even enigmatic, demanding effort from the reader.
  • The Nature of Proverbs: It defines what a "proverb" (Hebrew: mashal) is meant to be—a concise, often metaphorical saying that conveys a moral truth or observation. It also introduces the idea of "dark sayings," indicating that not all wisdom is immediately clear.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV accurately translates several key Hebrew terms here:

  • "Proverb" (Hebrew: mashal): This word is broad, encompassing not only short, pithy sayings but also parables, allegories, and even riddles. It suggests a comparison or a representative saying.
  • "Interpretation" (Hebrew: melitsah): This refers to an explanation or an enigma. It underscores that the *mashal* often requires elucidation to be fully grasped.
  • "Dark sayings" (Hebrew: chidoth): This term specifically denotes riddles, enigmas, or perplexing questions. It implies that the wise sayings are not always straightforward but can be challenging, requiring deep thought and sometimes divine revelation to unlock their meaning. This echoes the concept of "dark sayings" found elsewhere in Scripture, often associated with profound, hidden truths.

Practical Application

Proverbs 1:6 encourages a diligent and thoughtful approach to understanding truth, whether from Scripture, wise counsel, or life experiences. It teaches us:

  • To Seek Depth: Don't settle for superficial understanding. God's wisdom often requires diligent study, meditation, and prayer to uncover its layers. Just as Christ often spoke in parables that required interpretation, so too does biblical wisdom.
  • To Embrace Challenge: Some truths are "dark sayings" that challenge our assumptions and require us to wrestle with them. This process refines our understanding and strengthens our discernment.
  • The Role of the Holy Spirit: While the verse doesn't explicitly mention it, the Christian understanding of discerning spiritual truths recognizes the Holy Spirit's role in guiding us into all truth, helping us interpret what might otherwise remain a riddle (John 16:13).

Ultimately, the ability to understand these profound statements is rooted in the "fear of the Lord," which Proverbs 1:7 declares to be the beginning of knowledge and wisdom.

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 (May 20, 2025) 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

  • Psalms 78:2 (10 votes)

    I will open my mouth in a parable: I will utter dark sayings of old:

  • Mark 4:11 (8 votes)

    And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all [these] things are done in parables:

  • Hebrews 5:14 (6 votes)

    But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, [even] those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

  • Psalms 49:4 (6 votes)

    I will incline mine ear to a parable: I will open my dark saying upon the harp.

  • Mark 4:34 (5 votes)

    But without a parable spake he not unto them: and when they were alone, he expounded all things to his disciples.

  • Acts 8:30 (5 votes)

    And Philip ran thither to [him], and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest?

  • Acts 8:31 (5 votes)

    And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him.