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Book of Proverbs - Chapter 9 - Verse 10

9:10
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.

Meaning

This verse from the book of Proverbs emphasizes the importance of having a reverent fear or awe of the Lord as the foundation of wisdom. In this context, fear does not mean being scared of God, but rather having a deep respect and understanding of His power and authority. By acknowledging God's sovereignty and seeking to align our lives with His will, we position ourselves to receive true wisdom that comes from Him. The verse also highlights that having knowledge of the holy leads to understanding. This suggests that gaining insight into the things of God and living a life that reflects His holiness are key components of true understanding. Ultimately, this verse encourages believers to prioritize their relationship with God and seek His wisdom above all else. By centering our lives on Him and His truths, we are able to cultivate a deeper understanding of His ways and grow in wisdom.

Theological Overview

When examining the theological interpretation of Proverbs 9:10, we see the emphasis on the fear of the Lord as the foundation of wisdom. In the biblical context, the fear of the Lord refers to a deep respect, reverence, and awe for God, acknowledging His sovereignty and authority. This fear leads to wisdom, which is the ability to make sound judgments and decisions in accordance with God's will. The verse also highlights the importance of pursuing knowledge of the holy, which ultimately leads to understanding. Knowledge of the holy refers to seeking a deeper relationship with God, understanding His character and ways, and living a life that is pleasing to Him. By combining the fear of the Lord with the knowledge of the holy, one can attain true wisdom and understanding. This verse serves as a reminder to prioritize our relationship with God above all else, as it is the key to living a life of wisdom and understanding.

American Standard Version

The fear of Jehovah is the beginning of wisdom; And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
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