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Proverbs 23:12

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¶ Apply thine heart unto instruction, and thine ears to the words of knowledge.

Apply {H935} thine heart {H3820} unto instruction {H4148}, and thine ears {H241} to the words {H561} of knowledge {H1847}.

Apply your mind to discipline and your ears to words of knowledge.

Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge.

Apply thy heart unto instruction, And thine ears to the words of knowledge.

Commentary

Proverbs 23:12 is a concise yet profound exhortation from the wisdom literature, urging active engagement with learning and truth. It emphasizes the internal disposition required for acquiring wisdom and knowledge.

Context

The book of Proverbs, largely attributed to King Solomon, is a collection of practical and moral instructions for living a righteous and prosperous life. It frequently contrasts the path of wisdom with the path of folly. In ancient Israel, wisdom was not merely intellectual understanding but encompassed practical skill, moral discernment, and a right relationship with God. This verse fits within a broader emphasis on diligent pursuit of truth and a willingness to be taught, often by parents, teachers, or divine revelation. The concept of "instruction" (musar) often implies discipline and correction, suggesting that learning is not always comfortable but necessary for growth.

Key Themes

  • Active Pursuit of Wisdom: The verse calls for an intentional and engaged approach to learning. It's not enough for instruction to be present; one must "apply" their heart and "incline" their ears.
  • Holistic Engagement: Wisdom requires the involvement of one's entire being. The "heart" (the seat of will, intellect, and emotion) and the "ears" (symbolizing receptivity and listening) must both be committed.
  • Value of Discipline and Knowledge: Instruction and knowledge are presented as vital components for a well-ordered life. They are the means by which one gains discernment and avoids pitfalls.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "heart" is leb (or lev), which in biblical thought refers to the totality of one's inner being—intellect, will, emotions, and moral character—not just the emotional center. To "apply thine heart" (Hebrew: tēn libbeka, "give your heart") means to direct one's entire inner self, with full intention and commitment, towards learning. "Instruction" is musar, which carries the strong sense of discipline, correction, and moral training, often implying a submission to guidance. "Knowledge" is da'at, suggesting not just factual information but also discernment, understanding, and experiential insight.

Related Scriptures

  • This verse echoes the overarching theme of Proverbs, where wisdom is paramount, as seen in Proverbs 4:7: "Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom."
  • The importance of listening and receiving instruction is also highlighted in Proverbs 1:7, which states, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge."
  • The emphasis on the heart aligns with Proverbs 4:23: "Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life."

Practical Application

Proverbs 23:12 remains profoundly relevant today. It calls believers to be active and willing learners of God's Word and His ways. In an age of information overload, this verse reminds us to be discerning about what we allow to shape our inner being. It encourages not just passive hearing, but an intentional commitment of our will and understanding to divine truth and sound guidance. This means seeking out wisdom, listening attentively to godly counsel, and being open to correction, all of which contribute to spiritual growth and a life aligned with God's purposes. Just as we are called to be doers of the word, and not hearers only, this verse underscores the necessity of internalizing and acting upon the knowledge we gain.

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

  • Proverbs 2:2 (11 votes)

    So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, [and] apply thine heart to understanding;

  • Proverbs 2:6 (11 votes)

    For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth [cometh] knowledge and understanding.

  • Proverbs 5:1 (10 votes)

    ¶ My son, attend unto my wisdom, [and] bow thine ear to my understanding:

  • Proverbs 5:2 (10 votes)

    That thou mayest regard discretion, and [that] thy lips may keep knowledge.

  • Matthew 13:52 (8 votes)

    Then said he unto them, Therefore every scribe [which is] instructed unto the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man [that is] an householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure [things] new and old.

  • Ezekiel 33:31 (8 votes)

    And they come unto thee as the people cometh, and they sit before thee [as] my people, and they hear thy words, but they will not do them: for with their mouth they shew much love, [but] their heart goeth after their covetousness.

  • Proverbs 23:19 (8 votes)

    ¶ Hear thou, my son, and be wise, and guide thine heart in the way.