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and understanding raise her voice?
Understanding is closely linked with wisdom, often seen as the practical application of wisdom in daily life. The raising of her voice suggests urgency and importance, indicating that understanding is not passive but actively seeks to be heard and heeded. In the cultural context of the time, public proclamations were a common way to disseminate important information, suggesting that understanding is meant to be shared openly and not kept hidden. This aligns with the biblical principle that true understanding comes from God and is meant to guide righteous living (Proverbs 2:6). The imagery of raising her voice also foreshadows the New Testament revelation of Christ as the embodiment of wisdom and understanding (1 Corinthians 1:24).

- The verse opens with a question, but its tone is confident rather than doubtful. Wisdom is personified and proactive, stepping into the public square much like inProverbs 1:20 – 21, where “Wisdom calls out in the street; she raises her voice in the public square.”

- This calling is universal: wisdom is not whispering to an elite few but inviting everyone who will listen, echoingIsaiah 55:1 – 2, “Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters.”

- The call is continual. Just as creation’s ordered design “pours forth speech” day after day (Psalm 19:2), so wisdom’s appeal is ongoing, patient, and persistent.

- In the New Testament, Christ Himself embodies this call;1 Corinthians 1:24 says Christ is “the power of God and the wisdom of God.” Receiving the call of wisdom ultimately means responding to Him.

- Practical takeaway: because wisdom is calling, we can expect guidance whenever we turn to God’s Word (2 Timothy 3:16) and ask for it in prayer (James 1:5).

- “Understanding” parallels “wisdom,” reinforcing that God’s truth is both knowable and reasonable.Proverbs 2:3 – 6 ties these concepts together: when we “call out for insight” and “lift up our voice for understanding,” the Lord “gives wisdom.”

- Raising her voice implies urgency. Just as a loving parent lifts a voice to warn a child near danger, so understanding warns against the folly described inProverbs 7.

- A raised voice also signals clarity. God is not the author of confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33); His moral standards ring out plainly. CompareRevelation 3:20, where Jesus stands at the door and knocks—He wants to be heard.

- Because understanding is vocal, we are responsible for our response.Romans 1:20 reminds us that God’s attributes have been “clearly seen,” leaving no excuse for ignoring His revelation.

Proverbs 8:1 asks, “Does not wisdom call out, and understanding raise her voice?” The question assumes the answer: Yes, wisdom is calling, and understanding is lifting her voice. God graciously broadcasts His truth—through creation, Scripture, and ultimately Christ—so that anyone willing can hear, heed, and walk in life-giving obedience.

(n). Fourteenth Discourse:--The Praise of Wisdom(Proverbs 8)

(1)Doth not wisdom cry?--See above onProverbs 1:20. In contrast with the secret allurements of Vice under the cover of night, is here represented the open invitation of Wisdom. (Comp.John 18:20 : "I spake openly to the world . . . and in secret have I said nothing.")

(1) Introductory (vers. 1-3); Wisdom calls on all to listen, and gives reasons for trusting to her (vers. 4-11).

(2) She displays her excellence (vers. 12-21).

(3) She discourses of her origin and action (vers. 22-31). . . .

Parallel Commentaries ...