Proverbs 1:2

To know The construction in this and the following clauses is elliptical: The proverbs … to know, to discern, to receive, to give; i.e. the proverbs of which the purpose is that men may know, discern, and receive (as it is expressed in Proverbs 1:5), and that they (the proverbs) may give, &c.

wisdom In this one word the whole subject of the Book is gathered up. But in these opening verses the scope and functions of this Wisdom, which the Book is designed to teach, are set forth by a variety of words employed to expand and describe it. It is instruction, or, rather, discipline(Proverbs 1:2), not only instructive but corrective. It is discriminating, intelligent, penetrating, it discernsthe words of understanding (ib. R.V.). It is practical, for it educates or disciplines in wise dealing(Proverbs 1:3; Proverbs 1:1st clause, R.V.). It is uprightand just, and has regard to the severer virtues, for it trains in righteousness and judgement and equity(ib. R.V.). It sharpens the intellect, for it imparts subtilty, or prudence (R.V. marg. Proverbs 1:4). It adds learning(lit. acquirement) and the art of steering one's course aright (wise counsels) by its growth and fuller application (Proverbs 1:5). It gives play to the imagination and scope to the intellectual powers in proverband figure, in riddlesand dark sayings(Proverbs 1:6, R.V.).

instruction So both A.V. and R.V. But the word carries with it the sense of correction, or discipline. LXX. παιδεία (on which word in its Scriptural sense see Trench, N. T. Synonyms), Vulg. disciplina. The Heb. word is the same as is rendered chastening, A.V. and R.V. text in Proverbs 3:11, and παιδεία in the quotation of that passage in Hebrews 12:5. As Trench points out there can be no true instruction of man as he now is, without correction and discipline.

understanding Lit. discernment, the Heb. root being the same as discernat the beginning of the verse. The root-meaning is to go between, divide, distinguish. Comp. "that ye may prove the things that differ" (R.V. marg.), Philippians 1:10. Penetration is an integral part of wisdom.