Proverbs 2:5

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Proverbs 2:5 KJV

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

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Proverbs 2:5 Bible Commentary

Commentary on Proverbs 2:5

Proverbs 2:5 states, "Then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God." This verse encapsulates the progression from pursuit to understanding in the life of a believer. It acts as a bridge connecting the earlier verses, which emphasize the importance of seeking wisdom and instruction, to the profound results of such pursuits.

Context and Structure

The second chapter of Proverbs is a treasure trove of wisdom literature, emphasizing the necessity of seeking wisdom as one would seek for silver or hidden treasures. This chapter is part of the larger framework of instructional poetry that encourages the reader to embrace the tenets of wisdom as integral to a life aligned with God's purposes.

The Fear of the Lord

The first part of the verse mentions "understanding the fear of the LORD." This phrase is pivotal in biblical wisdom literature.

  • Matthew Henry notes that the "fear of the LORD" encapsulates a profound reverence and awe for God's holiness and power. It is an acknowledgment of His sovereignty, which leads to humility before Him.
  • Albert Barnes adds that this fear is not a paralyzing dread but rather a loving respect that motivates the individual to live in accordance with God's will and commandments.
  • Adam Clarke elaborates further, suggesting that this fear is the beginning of wisdom (as reiterated in Proverbs 1:7), and serves essentially as an entry point into deeper knowledge and understanding of the divine.

The Knowledge of God

The latter part of the verse states, "and find the knowledge of God." Here, we see the relationship between the fear of God and the acquisition of true knowledge.

  • Matthew Henry asserts that true knowledge is not merely intellectual but deeply relational, implying that knowing God is akin to entering into a covenant relationship where His will is followed.
  • Albert Barnes stresses that the term "knowledge" encompasses a broader understanding of God—not just an awareness of His attributes but an experiential knowledge gained through a life that seeks to understand Him in daily living.
  • Adam Clarke indicates that this knowledge of God comes as a result of diligent search and earnest longing for wisdom, reinforcing the idea that wisdom is relational and cannot be separated from the character of God.

The Process of Seeking

In the surrounding verses (Proverbs 2:1-4), the active verbs call the reader to a dynamic pursuit:

  • Receiving. The act of receiving God’s words implies an openness to instruction and correction.
  • Hiding. This suggests internalizing these teachings, making them part of one’s very being.
  • Calling. An earnest appeal for insight, indicating that wisdom is sought as one would call for help in times of distress.
  • Searching. The quest for wisdom is likened to searching for silver, denoting the value and effort required in pursuit of divine truths.

The Assurance of Understanding

Proverbs 2:5 provides the assurance that those who diligently seek wisdom and understand the fear of the Lord will indeed find knowledge.

  • Matthew Henry remarks that understanding comes as a natural outcome of seeking God with sincerity. It suggests an inevitable divine revelation accompanying the earnest seeker.
  • Albert Barnes reinforces this by indicating that the passage reflects the dynamic relationship between human initiative and divine response: as we seek, God grants understanding.
  • Adam Clarke notes that the understanding of the fear of the Lord is a form of enlightenment that opens one's heart to divine truths, transforming one’s approach to both life and theology.

Conclusion

In summary, Proverbs 2:5 serves as a pivotal verse in understanding how the pursuit of wisdom intertwines with the reverence for God, leading to profound knowledge of the divine.

For pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars, this verse underscores the importance of intentional seeking in the journey of faith. It invites a deeper reflection on how the fear of the Lord can shape one's understanding and relationship with God, urging a transformative journey that leads to wisdom and insight.

Proverbs 2 (KJV) Verse Selection

Proverbs 2:1 Proverbs 2:2 Proverbs 2:3 Proverbs 2:4 Proverbs 2:5 Proverbs 2:6 Proverbs 2:7 Proverbs 2:8 Proverbs 2:9 Proverbs 2:10 Proverbs 2:11 Proverbs 2:12 Proverbs 2:13 Proverbs 2:14 Proverbs 2:15 Proverbs 2:16 Proverbs 2:17 Proverbs 2:18 Proverbs 2:19 Proverbs 2:20 Proverbs 2:21 Proverbs 2:22

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