King James Version

What Does Proverbs 2:5 Mean?

“Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God.”

Context

Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; liftest: Heb. givest thy voice

If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures;

Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God.

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

He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous: he is a buckler to them that walk uprightly.

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Topics in This Verse

Fear & Courage

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(5) **Find the knowledge of God.**—It is the highest of all gifts, even eternal life itself, to know God, the Giver of all good things. It was to bestow this knowledge upon man that Christ came into the world (John 17:3). He promises (Proverbs 14:21) the manifestation of Himself as the reward of obedience and love. And yet our highest knowledge of God in this life must be so imperfect, in comparison with the knowledge of Him hereafter, when we shall see Him “face to face” (1Corinthians 13:12), that St. Paul. (Galatians 4:9) describes our relation to Him now as better expressed by *“*being known of Him:” *i.e., *recognised, acknowledged by Him as His children, rather than by “knowing” Him.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

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.

Theological Significance

Proverbs 2:5 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.