King James Version
Proverbs 17:16 in the King James Version says “Wherefore is there a price in the hand of a fool to get wisdom, seeing he hath no heart to it?” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 17 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“Wherefore is there a price in the hand of a fool to get wisdom, seeing he hath no heart to it?”
Proverbs 17:16 · KJV
The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.
He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the just, even they both are abomination to the LORD.
Wherefore is there a price in the hand of a fool to get wisdom, seeing he hath no heart to it?
A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.
A man void of understanding striketh hands, and becometh surety in the presence of his friend. understanding: Heb. heart
KJV Study — Public Domain
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
“in the hand”
H3027a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v
“to get”
H7069to erect, i.e., create; by extension, to procure, especially by purchase (causatively, sell); by implication to own
“seeing he hath no heart”
H3820the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
This verse is found in the book of Proverbs. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Proverbs 17:16 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Proverbs 17:16 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge