Counsel and sound judgment are mine;This phrase emphasizes the possession of wisdom, which is personified in
Proverbs 8. Wisdom is portrayed as having counsel and sound judgment, essential qualities for making righteous decisions. In the biblical context, counsel refers to the ability to provide guidance and advice, often seen in the role of prophets and wise leaders like Solomon. Sound judgment implies discernment and the ability to distinguish right from wrong, a quality highly valued in the wisdom literature of the Bible. This aligns with the broader biblical theme that true wisdom comes from God, as seen in
James 1:5, where believers are encouraged to ask God for wisdom.
I have insight and strength.
Insight refers to deep understanding and the ability to see the true nature of things, a characteristic of divine wisdom. In the historical context of ancient Israel, leaders and judges were expected to possess insight to govern effectively. Strength, in this context, is not merely physical but also moral and spiritual fortitude. This phrase can be connected to the portrayal of Jesus Christ, who embodies wisdom and strength, as seen inColossians 2:3, where it is stated that in Christ are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. The combination of insight and strength suggests that true wisdom empowers individuals to act with courage and integrity.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
SolomonTraditionally considered the author of Proverbs, Solomon was known for his wisdom, which he received from God. Proverbs is a collection of his wise sayings and teachings.
2.
WisdomPersonified in
Proverbs 8, Wisdom is depicted as a woman calling out to people, offering guidance and understanding. This personification emphasizes the value and accessibility of wisdom to those who seek it.
3.
Ancient IsraelThe cultural and historical context in which Proverbs was written. Wisdom literature was highly valued in ancient Israel, and Proverbs served as a guide for living a life pleasing to God.
Teaching Points
The Source of True WisdomWisdom, counsel, and sound judgment originate from God. Believers should seek these attributes from Him rather than relying solely on human understanding.
The Role of Wisdom in Decision-MakingSound judgment and insight are crucial for making godly decisions. Christians are encouraged to seek wisdom in all areas of life, ensuring their choices align with God's will.
Strength Through WisdomTrue strength is found in wisdom and understanding. This strength enables believers to stand firm in their faith and navigate life's challenges with confidence.
The Accessibility of WisdomWisdom is available to all who seek it.
Proverbs 8 emphasizes that wisdom calls out to everyone, inviting them to learn and grow in understanding.
Christ as the Embodiment of WisdomJesus Christ is the ultimate embodiment of wisdom. By following Him, believers gain access to the counsel, insight, and strength described in
Proverbs 8:14.
Lists and Questions
Top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 8
How can I align my resolutions with Christian values?
What is the order of the Bible's books?
What does the Bible say about wrathful outbursts?
Who was Ellen G. White and her beliefs?(14)
Sound wisdom.--See above on
Proverbs 2:7.
Strength.--Comp.Ecclesiastes 7:19. For these various gifts of wisdom, comp.Isaiah 11:2.
Verse 14. - Having said what she hates, Wisdom now says what she is, and what she can bestow on her followers.
Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom. There is some doubt about the meaning of the word translated "sound wisdom" (
tushiyyah). The Vulgate has
aequitas; the Septuagint,
ἀσφάλεια, "safety." The word occurs elsewhere in this book and in Job, but only in two other places of Scripture, viz.
Isaiah 28:29 and
Micah 6:9. It means properly "elevation" or "furtherance," or, as others say, "substance;" and then that which is essentially good end useful, which may be wisdom, aid, or security (see on Proverbs 2:7). Wisdom affirms that she possesses counsel and all that can help forward righteousness; see
Job 12:13, 16, passages very similar to the present (comp. Wisd. 8:9, etc.).
I am understanding. Wisdom does not merely possess these attributes; they are her very nature, as it is said, "God is love" St. Jerome's
mea est prudentia, and the LXX.'s
ἐμὴ φρόνησις, lose this trait.
I have strength. Wisdom directs the energies and powers of her pupils, which without her control would be spent wrongly or uselessly (comp.
Ecclesiastes 7:19). Wisdom, understanding, and might are named among the seven gifts of the Spirit in
Isaiah 11:2; and we may see in the passage generally an adumbration of him who is called "Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God" (
Isaiah 9:6).
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
Counselעֵ֭צָה(‘ê·ṣāh)Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 6098:Advice, plan, prudenceand sound judgmentוְתוּשִׁיָּ֑ה(wə·ṯū·šî·yāh)Conjunctive waw | Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 8454:Support, ability, help, an undertaking, understandingare mine;לִֽי־(lî-)Preposition | first person common singular
Strong's HebrewIאֲנִ֥י(’ă·nî)Pronoun - first person common singular
Strong's 589:Ihave insightבִ֝ינָ֗ה(ḇî·nāh)Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 998:An understandingand strength.גְבוּרָֽה׃(ḡə·ḇū·rāh)Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 1369:Force, valor, victory
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OT Poetry: Proverbs 8:14 Counsel and sound knowledge are mine (Prov. Pro Pr)