New International VersionGold there is, and rubies in abundance, but lips that speak knowledge are a rare jewel.
New Living TranslationWise words are more valuable than much gold and many rubies.
English Standard VersionThere is gold and abundance of costly stones, but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.
Berean Standard BibleThere is an abundance of gold and rubies, but lips of knowledge are a rare treasure.
King James BibleThere is gold, and a multitude of rubies: but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.
New King James VersionThere is gold and a multitude of rubies, But the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.
New American Standard BibleThere is gold, and an abundance of jewels; But lips of knowledge are a more precious thing.
NASB 1995There is gold, and an abundance of jewels; But the lips of knowledge are a more precious thing.
NASB 1977There is gold, and an abundance of jewels; But the lips of knowledge are a more precious thing.
Legacy Standard BibleThere is gold, and an abundance of pearls; But the lips of knowledge are a more precious vessel.
Amplified BibleThere is gold, and an abundance of pearls, But the lips of knowledge are a vessel of preciousness [the most precious of all].
Christian Standard BibleThere is gold and a multitude of jewels, but knowledgeable lips are a rare treasure.
Holman Christian Standard BibleThere is gold and a multitude of jewels, but knowledgeable lips are a rare treasure.
American Standard VersionThere is gold, and abundance of rubies; But the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.
Contemporary English VersionSensible words are better than gold or jewels.
English Revised VersionThere is gold, and abundance of rubies: but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.
GOD'S WORD® TranslationThere are gold and plenty of jewels, but the lips of knowledge are precious gems.
Good News TranslationIf you know what you are talking about, you have something more valuable than gold or jewels.
International Standard VersionThere is an abundance of gold and precious stones, but lips of knowledge are a rare jewel.
NET BibleThere is gold, and an abundance of rubies, but words of knowledge are like a precious jewel.
New Heart English BibleThere is gold and abundance of rubies; but the lips of knowledge are a rare jewel.
Webster's Bible TranslationThere is gold, and a multitude of rubies: but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleThere is an abundance of gold and rubies, but lips of knowledge are a rare treasure.
World English BibleThere is gold and abundance of rubies, but the lips of knowledge are a rare jewel. Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionSubstance, gold, and a multitude of rubies, "" Indeed, a precious vessel, [are] lips of knowledge.
Young's Literal Translation Substance, gold, and a multitude of rubies, Yea, a precious vessel, are lips of knowledge.
Smith's Literal TranslationThere is gold and a multitude of pearls: and a precious vessel the lips of knowledge. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleThere is gold, and a multitude of jewels: but the lips of knowledge are a precious vessel.
Catholic Public Domain VersionThere is gold, and there are a multitude of jewels. But lips of knowledge are a precious vessel.
New American BibleOne can put on gold and abundant jewels, but wise lips are the most precious ornament.
New Revised Standard VersionThere is gold, and abundance of costly stones; but the lips informed by knowledge are a precious jewel. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleAgain he says, Here is gold and a multitude of precious stones and precious vessels; but the lips of knowledge are precious jewels.
Peshitta Holy Bible TranslatedBut let him say, "Here is gold and a multitude of precious stones and valuable vessels, and the lips of knowledge.” OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917There is gold, and a multitude of rubies; But the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context Wine is a Mocker… 14“Worthless, worthless!” says the buyer, but on the way out, he gloats. 15There isan abundanceof goldand rubies,but lipsof knowledgeare a raretreasure.16Take the garment of the one who posts security for a stranger; get collateral if it is for a foreigner.…
Cross References Proverbs 3:13-15Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who acquires understanding, / for she is more profitable than silver, and her gain is better than fine gold. / She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire compares with her.
Proverbs 8:10-11Receive my instruction instead of silver, and knowledge rather than pure gold. / For wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire compares with her.
Proverbs 16:16How much better to acquire wisdom than gold! To gain understanding is more desirable than silver.
Job 28:12-19But where can wisdom be found, and where does understanding dwell? / No man can know its value, nor is it found in the land of the living. / The ocean depths say, ‘It is not in me,’ while the sea declares, ‘It is not with me.’ ...
Matthew 13:44-46The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and in his joy he went and sold all he had and bought that field. / Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls. / When he found one very precious pearl, he went away and sold all he had and bought it.
Colossians 2:2-3that they may be encouraged in heart, knit together in love, and filled with the full riches of complete understanding, so that they may know the mystery of God, namely Christ, / in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.
James 3:13-18Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good conduct, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. / But if you harbor bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast in it or deny the truth. / Such wisdom does not come from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. ...
Proverbs 2:1-6My son, if you accept my words and hide my commandments within you, / if you incline your ear to wisdom and direct your heart to understanding, / if you truly call out to insight and lift your voice to understanding, ...
Proverbs 4:7Wisdom is supreme; so acquire wisdom. And whatever you may acquire, gain understanding.
Ecclesiastes 7:12For wisdom, like money, is a shelter, and the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the life of its owner.
1 Corinthians 1:24but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.
Ephesians 1:17-18that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation in your knowledge of Him. / I ask that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you may know the hope of His calling, the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints,
Proverbs 10:20The tongue of the righteous is choice silver, but the heart of the wicked has little worth.
Proverbs 25:11-12A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver. / Like an earring of gold or an ornament of fine gold is a wise man’s rebuke to a listening ear.
Isaiah 33:6He will be the sure foundation for your times, a storehouse of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge. The fear of the LORD is Zion’s treasure.
Treasury of Scripture There is gold, and a multitude of rubies: but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel. but Proverbs 3:15 Sheis more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her. Proverbs 8:11 For wisdomis better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it. Proverbs 10:20,21 The tongue of the justis as choice silver: the heart of the wickedis little worth… Jump to Previous AbundanceCoralsCostlyGoldGreatJewelJewelsLipsMultitudePreciousPriceRareRubiesSpeakStonesStoreSubstanceVesselJump to Next AbundanceCoralsCostlyGoldGreatJewelJewelsLipsMultitudePreciousPriceRareRubiesSpeakStonesStoreSubstanceVesselProverbs 20 1.Proper LivingThere is an abundance of gold and rubiesGold and rubies were highly valued in ancient times, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. Gold, often associated with kings and the divine, was used in the construction of the Temple ( 1 Kings 6:20-22) and in the making of sacred objects. Rubies, though less frequently mentioned, were considered precious stones, often included in lists of valuable items ( Job 28:18). The abundance of these materials suggests the material wealth that was accessible in the ancient Near East, particularly in regions like Ophir, known for its gold ( 1 Kings 10:11). This phrase sets the stage for a comparison between material wealth and something of even greater value. but lips of knowledge are a rare treasure
In contrast to the abundance of gold and rubies, the "lips of knowledge" are described as rare. This highlights the biblical theme that wisdom and understanding are more valuable than material wealth (Proverbs 3:13-15). Knowledge here refers to a deep, God-given understanding and insight, often associated with the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 1:7). The rarity of such knowledge underscores the idea that true wisdom is not easily found and must be diligently sought (Proverbs 2:4-5). This aligns with the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized the value of spiritual over material wealth (Matthew 6:19-21). The "lips of knowledge" can also be seen as a type of Christ, who is the embodiment of divine wisdom and knowledge (Colossians 2:3). Persons / Places / Events 1. SolomonTraditionally attributed as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. His reign was marked by peace and prosperity, and he is credited with compiling many of the wise sayings found in the book of Proverbs. 2. Ancient IsraelThe cultural and historical context of Proverbs is ancient Israel, where wisdom literature was highly valued. The society placed a strong emphasis on moral and ethical living according to God's laws. 3. Wisdom LiteratureProverbs is part of the wisdom literature in the Bible, which includes books like Job and Ecclesiastes. These writings focus on practical living and the pursuit of wisdom. Teaching Points The Value of Wisdom Over WealthWhile material wealth like gold and rubies is often sought after, the Bible teaches that wisdom and knowledge are far more valuable. True wisdom leads to a life that honors God and benefits others. The Rarity of Knowledgeable SpeechIn a world filled with many voices and opinions, speech that is grounded in true knowledge and wisdom is rare and precious. As believers, we should strive to cultivate and share this kind of speech. Pursuing Godly WisdomThe pursuit of wisdom should be a priority in the life of a Christian. This involves studying God's Word, seeking counsel from wise believers, and praying for discernment. Impact of Wise WordsWords of knowledge can have a profound impact on those around us. They can guide, encourage, and bring healing. We should be mindful of the power of our words and use them to build up others. Lists and Questions Top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 20
What wisdom and guidance does Proverbs offer for life?
What does 'More Precious Than Rubies' mean?
Is God greater than our hearts?
What does this have to do with me?(15) Rubies.--See above on Proverbs 3:15. Lips of knowledge.--See above onProverbs 18:4. Verse 15. - There is gold, and a multitude of rubies. For peninim, which is rendered "rubies," "pearls," or "coral," see on Proverbs 3:15. There is gold which is precious, and there is abundance of pearls which are still more valuable. But the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel, and worth more than all. We had the expression, "lips of knowledge," in Proverbs 14:7; it means lips that utter wisdom. Keli, often translated "jewel" in the Authorized Version, also boars the meaning of "vessel," "utensil." So here the Vulgate, vas pretiosum; and the wise man's lips are called a vessel because they contain and distribute the wisdom that is within. (On the excellence and value of wisdom, see ch. Proverbs 3:14, etc; Proverbs 8:11, etc.) Connecting this with the preceding verse, we are led to the thought of buying, and the Lord's parable of the merchant seeking goodly pearls, and bartering all his wealth to gain possession of a worthy jewel ( Matthew 13:45, etc.).
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew There isיֵ֣שׁ(yêš)Adverb
Strong's 3426:Being, substance, existence, isgoldזָ֭הָב(zā·hāḇ)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 2091:Gold, something gold-colored, as oil, a clear skyand abundanceוְרָב־(wə·rāḇ-)Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 7230:Multitude, abundance, greatnessof rubies,פְּנִינִ֑ים(pə·nî·nîm)Noun - feminine plural
Strong's 6443:A pearlbut lipsשִׂפְתֵי־(śip̄·ṯê-)Noun - fdc
Strong's 8193:The lip, language, a marginof knowledgeדָֽעַת׃(ḏā·‘aṯ)Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 1847:Knowledgeare a rareיְ֝קָ֗ר(yə·qār)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 3366:Value, wealth, costliness, dignitytreasure.וּכְלִ֥י(ū·ḵə·lî)Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 3627:Something prepared, any apparatus
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OT Poetry: Proverbs 20:15 There is gold and abundance of rubies (Prov. Pro Pr) |
