The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdomThis phrase emphasizes the foundational role that reverence for God plays in acquiring true wisdom. In the biblical context, "fear" refers to a deep respect and awe for God's power and authority, rather than terror. This concept is rooted in the Hebrew understanding of wisdom, which is not merely intellectual but involves living in accordance with God's will. The idea that wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord is echoed in other scriptures, such as
Job 28:28 and
Psalm 111:10, highlighting its centrality in the biblical worldview. Historically, this reverence was integral to the Israelite identity, setting them apart from surrounding nations that worshipped multiple deities. Theologically, this fear is seen as the starting point for a relationship with God, leading to a life of obedience and moral integrity.
and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding
This phrase underscores the importance of knowing God personally and intimately as the path to true understanding. The "Holy One" refers to God, emphasizing His purity, separateness, and perfection. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, knowing God was not just about intellectual assent but involved a relational and experiential knowledge. This is reflected in the Hebrew word "yada," which implies a deep, personal acquaintance. The connection between knowing God and understanding is also seen inHosea 4:6, where a lack of knowledge of God leads to destruction. In the New Testament, this concept is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate revelation of God (John 1:18). Through Christ, believers gain access to the fullness of understanding and wisdom, as seen inColossians 2:2-3, where all treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden in Him.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
The LORD (Yahweh)The covenant name of God in the Hebrew Bible, representing His eternal, self-existent nature and His relationship with His people.
2.
The Holy OneA title for God, emphasizing His purity, holiness, and separateness from sin and imperfection.
3.
SolomonTraditionally considered the author of Proverbs, known for his wisdom and his role as the king of Israel.
4.
IsraelThe nation to whom the Proverbs were originally addressed, representing God's chosen people.
5.
Wisdom LiteratureA genre of biblical writing that includes Proverbs, focusing on practical and moral teachings.
Teaching Points
The Foundation of WisdomTrue wisdom begins with a reverent fear of the Lord. This fear is not terror but a profound respect and awe for God's majesty and holiness.
Understanding Through RelationshipKnowledge of the Holy One implies an intimate relationship with God. Understanding comes from knowing God personally and deeply.
Holiness and WisdomThe pursuit of holiness is integral to gaining wisdom. As we grow in holiness, we align our lives with God's will, which is the essence of wisdom.
Practical ObedienceWisdom is not merely intellectual but practical. It involves living out God's commandments in everyday life.
The Role of the Holy SpiritThe Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in imparting wisdom and understanding. Believers should seek the Spirit's guidance in their pursuit of wisdom.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Proverbs 9:10?
2.How does "fear of the LORD" guide daily decision-making and actions?
3.What role does "knowledge of the Holy One" play in spiritual growth?
4.How can Proverbs 9:10 deepen our understanding of wisdom in other scriptures?
5.How can we cultivate a healthy "fear of the LORD" in our lives?
6.In what ways does Proverbs 9:10 challenge modern views on wisdom and knowledge?
7.What does "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom" truly mean in Proverbs 9:10?
8.How does Proverbs 9:10 define the relationship between fear and wisdom?
9.Why is the "knowledge of the Holy One" considered understanding in Proverbs 9:10?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 9?
11.Are higher IQ individuals less likely to believe in God?
12.Proverbs 9:10 asserts “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” How does this claim align with secular approaches to wisdom and knowledge that require no fear of a deity?
13.How does wisdom lead to foolishness?
14.How can I gain wisdom and understanding from God?What Does Proverbs 9:10 Mean
The fear of the LORD“The fear of the LORD…” (Proverbs 9:10a)
• Fear here means a deep, reverent awe that bows before God’s holiness. AsExodus 20:20 says, “Do not be afraid, for God has come to test you, so that the fear of Him will be before you, to keep you from sinning.”
• This fear keeps us humble, reminds us of our dependence, and guards us from casual attitudes toward sin (Psalm 111:10;Proverbs 14:27).
• It is not servile terror but a worshipful posture that delights in God’s greatness—much like Isaiah’s response when he cried, “Woe is me!” in the throne room (Isaiah 6:5).
Is the beginning of wisdom“…is the beginning of wisdom…” (Proverbs 9:10a)
• “Beginning” means the starting point and foundation. Wisdom cannot be built on any other base (Proverbs 1:7;Job 28:28).
• True wisdom flows from God Himself: “For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding” (Proverbs 2:6).
• Practical results:
– We order life around God’s priorities (Matthew 6:33).
– We choose actions that stand when storms hit (Matthew 7:24).
– We ask and receive wisdom confidently (James 1:5).
And knowledge of the Holy One“…and knowledge of the Holy One…” (Proverbs 9:10b)
• “Knowledge” is relational, not merely intellectual.Jeremiah 9:24 celebrates those who “understand and know Me.”
• “Holy One” highlights God’s absolute purity, pointing us to the Son as well, for even demons identified Jesus: “I know who You are—the Holy One of God!” (Mark 1:24).
• Growing in this knowledge involves:
– Time in Scripture where God reveals Himself (John 5:39).
– Ongoing fellowship in prayer (Psalm 27:4).
– Walking in obedience, for “if anyone loves Me, he will keep My word” (John 14:23).
Is understanding“…is understanding.” (Proverbs 9:10b)
• Understanding is the ability to see life from God’s perspective and apply truth rightly (Proverbs 2:5–6).
• It brings:
– Discernment between good and evil (Hebrews 5:14).
– Insight that fills us “with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding” (Colossians 1:9–10).
– Stability when culture shifts, because we stand on revealed reality, not opinion (Psalm 119:104–105).
summaryProverbs 9:10 teaches that reverent awe of the LORD is the essential starting line for every wise decision, and that an ever-deepening relationship with the Holy One gives true insight. Fear roots us in humility before God; knowledge of Him matures that reverence into clear, practical understanding for daily life.
(10)
The fear of the Lord. . .--Comp.
Isaiah 11:2, where the "spirit of knowledge" and of the "fear of the Lord" is counted as the gift of God. (For the general sense of the passage, see above, on
Proverbs 1:7.)
Knowledge of the holy--i.e., "the Holy One," as inProverbs 30:3.
Verse 10. - Wisdom returns to the first apothegm and principle of the whole book (
Proverbs 1:7). Without the fear of God no teaching is of any avail.
The knowledge of the holy is understanding. The word translated "the holy" is
קְדשִׁים, a plural of excellence (see on Proverbs 30:3) like
Elohim, and equivalent to "the Most Holy One," Jehovah, to which it answers in the first hemistich. God is called "Holy, holy, holy" (
Isaiah 6:3), in his threefold nature, and as majestic beyond expression. The only knowledge worth having, and which is of avail for the practical purposes of life, is the knowledge of God (see on Proverbs 2:5). Septuagint, "The counsel of the holy (
ἁγίων) is understanding," with the explanatory clause; "for to know the Law is the character of good thought." This occurs again at
Proverbs 13:15, though in the Hebrew in neither place.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
The fearיִרְאַ֣ת(yir·’aṯ)Noun - feminine singular construct
Strong's 3374:Fear, reverenceof the LORDיְהוָ֑ה(Yah·weh)Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3069:YHWHis the beginningתְּחִלַּ֣ת(tə·ḥil·laṯ)Noun - feminine singular construct
Strong's 8462:A commencement, rel, originalof wisdom,חָ֭כְמָה(ḥāḵ·māh)Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 2451:Wisdomand knowledgeוְדַ֖עַת(wə·ḏa·‘aṯ)Conjunctive waw | Noun - feminine singular construct
Strong's 1847:Knowledgeof the Holy Oneקְדֹשִׁ֣ים(qə·ḏō·šîm)Adjective - masculine plural
Strong's 6918:Sacred, God, an angel, a saint, a sanctuaryis understanding.בִּינָֽה׃(bî·nāh)Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 998:An understanding
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OT Poetry: Proverbs 9:10 The fear of Yahweh is the beginning (Prov. Pro Pr) 
