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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Proverbs 4:7 Wisdom is supreme; so acquire wisdom. And whatever you may acquire, gain understanding.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/proverbs/4-7.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/11/20_Pro_04_07.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Proverbs 4:7 - A Father's Instruction" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Wisdom is supreme; so acquire wisdom. And whatever you may acquire, gain understanding." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/proverbs/4-7.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/proverbs/4-7.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/proverbs/">Proverbs</a> > <a href="/proverbs/4.htm">Chapter 4</a> > Verse 7</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad7.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/proverbs/4-6.htm" title="Proverbs 4:6">◄</a> Proverbs 4:7 <a href="/proverbs/4-8.htm" title="Proverbs 4:8">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/proverbs/4.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/proverbs/4.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/proverbs/4.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do! And whatever else you do, develop good judgment.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/proverbs/4.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom, and whatever you get, get insight.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/proverbs/4.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />Wisdom is supreme; so acquire wisdom. And whatever you may acquire, gain understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/proverbs/4.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />Wisdom <i>is</i> the principal thing; <i>therefore</i> get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/proverbs/4.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />Wisdom <i>is</i> the principal thing; <i>Therefore</i> get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/proverbs/4.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />“The beginning of wisdom <i>is:</i> Acquire wisdom; And with all your possessions, acquire understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/proverbs/4.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />&#8220The beginning of wisdom is: Acquire wisdom; And with all your acquiring, get understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/proverbs/4.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />“The beginning of wisdom <i>is:</i> Acquire wisdom; And with all your acquiring, get understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/proverbs/4.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />The beginning of wisdom <i>is</i>: Acquire wisdom; And with all your acquiring, acquire understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/proverbs/4.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />“The beginning of wisdom is: Get [skillful and godly] wisdom [it is preeminent]! And with all your acquiring, get understanding [actively seek spiritual discernment, mature comprehension, and logical interpretation].<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/proverbs/4.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Wisdom is supreme—so get wisdom. And whatever else you get, get understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/proverbs/4.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Wisdom is supreme—so get wisdom. And whatever else you get, get understanding. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/proverbs/4.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom; Yea, with all thy getting get understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/proverbs/4.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />The best thing about Wisdom is Wisdom herself; good sense is more important than anything else. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/proverbs/4.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: yea, with all thou hast gotten get understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/proverbs/4.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />The beginning of wisdom is to acquire wisdom. Acquire understanding with all that you have.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/proverbs/4.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />Getting wisdom is the most important thing you can do. Whatever else you get, get insight. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/proverbs/4.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />Wisdom is of utmost importance, therefore get wisdom, and with all your effort work to acquire understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/proverbs/4.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />Wisdom is supreme; so acquire wisdom. And whatever you may acquire, gain understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/proverbs/4.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />Wisdom is supreme--so acquire wisdom, and whatever you acquire, acquire understanding! <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/proverbs/4.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />Wisdom is supreme. Get wisdom. Yes, though it costs all your possessions, get understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/proverbs/4.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/proverbs/4.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />Wisdom is supreme. Get wisdom. Yes, though it costs all your possessions, get understanding. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/proverbs/4.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />The first thing [is] wisdom—get wisdom, "" And with all your getting get understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/proverbs/4.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> The first thing is wisdom -- get wisdom, And with all thy getting get understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/proverbs/4.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />Wisdom the beginning; obtain wisdom, and with all thine acquisition, obtain understanding.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/proverbs/4.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />The beginning of wisdom, get wisdom, and with all thy possession purchase prudence. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/proverbs/4.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />The beginning of wisdom is to obtain wisdom, and, with all that you possess, to acquire prudence.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/proverbs/4.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />The beginning of wisdom is: get wisdom; whatever else you get, get understanding. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/proverbs/4.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom, and whatever else you get, get insight.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/proverbs/4.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom; and with all your substance get understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/proverbs/4.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />Wisdom is the summit; get wisdom, and with all your possessions purchase understanding.<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/proverbs/4.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />The beginning of wisdom is: Get wisdom; Yea, with all thy getting get understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/proverbs/4-7.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kpUA5ZltBeQ?start=616" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/proverbs/4.htm">A Father's Instruction</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">6</span>Do not forsake wisdom, and she will preserve you; love her, and she will guard you. <span class="reftext">7</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/2451.htm" title="2451: ḥāḵ·māh (N-fs) -- Wisdom. From chakam; wisdom.">Wisdom</a> <a href="/hebrew/7225.htm" title="7225: rê·šîṯ (N-fs) -- Beginning, chief. From the same as ro'sh; the first, in place, time, order or rank.">is supreme;</a> <a href="/hebrew/7069.htm" title="7069: qə·nêh (V-Qal-Imp-ms) -- A primitive root; to erect, i.e. Create; by extension, to procure, especially by purchase; by implication to own.">so acquire</a> <a href="/hebrew/2451.htm" title="2451: ḥāḵ·māh (N-fs) -- Wisdom. From chakam; wisdom.">wisdom.</a> <a href="/hebrew/3605.htm" title="3605: ū·ḇə·ḵāl (Conj-w, Prep-b:: N-msc) -- The whole, all. Or kowl; from kalal; properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every.">And whatever</a> <a href="/hebrew/7075.htm" title="7075: qin·yā·nə·ḵā (N-msc:: 2ms) -- Something gotten or acquired, acquisition. From qanah; creation, i.e. creatures; also acquisition, purchase, wealth.">you may acquire,</a> <a href="/hebrew/7069.htm" title="7069: qə·nêh (V-Qal-Imp-ms) -- A primitive root; to erect, i.e. Create; by extension, to procure, especially by purchase; by implication to own.">gain</a> <a href="/hebrew/998.htm" title="998: ḇî·nāh (N-fs) -- An understanding. From biyn; understanding.">understanding.</a> </span><span class="reftext">8</span>Prize her, and she will exalt you; if you embrace her, she will honor you.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/1-5.htm">James 1:5</a></span><br />Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/2-6.htm">Proverbs 2:6</a></span><br />For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/colossians/2-3.htm">Colossians 2:3</a></span><br />in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/ecclesiastes/7-12.htm">Ecclesiastes 7:12</a></span><br />For wisdom, like money, is a shelter, and the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the life of its owner.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/16-16.htm">Proverbs 16:16</a></span><br />How much better to acquire wisdom than gold! To gain understanding is more desirable than silver.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/1-24.htm">1 Corinthians 1:24</a></span><br />but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/9-10.htm">Proverbs 9:10</a></span><br />The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/ephesians/1-17.htm">Ephesians 1:17</a></span><br />that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation in your knowledge of Him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/3-13.htm">Proverbs 3:13-18</a></span><br />Blessed 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. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_timothy/3-15.htm">2 Timothy 3:15</a></span><br />From infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/1-7.htm">Proverbs 1:7</a></span><br />The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/luke/21-15.htm">Luke 21:15</a></span><br />For I will give you speech and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/8-11.htm">Proverbs 8:11</a></span><br />For wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire compares with her.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/colossians/1-9.htm">Colossians 1:9</a></span><br />For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/job/28-28.htm">Job 28:28</a></span><br />And He said to man, ‘Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom, and to turn away from evil is understanding.’”</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all your getting get understanding.</p><p class="hdg">wisdom is</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/ecclesiastes/7-12.htm">Ecclesiastes 7:12</a></b></br> For wisdom <i>is</i> a defence, <i>and</i> money <i>is</i> a defence: but the excellency of knowledge <i>is, that</i> wisdom giveth life to them that have it.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/ecclesiastes/9-16.htm">Ecclesiastes 9:16-18</a></b></br> Then said I, Wisdom <i>is</i> better than strength: nevertheless the poor man's wisdom <i>is</i> despised, and his words are not heard… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/matthew/13-44.htm">Matthew 13:44-46</a></b></br> Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field… </p><p class="hdg">with</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/16-16.htm">Proverbs 16:16</a></b></br> How much better <i>is it</i> to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/21-6.htm">Proverbs 21:6</a></b></br> The getting of treasures by a lying tongue <i>is</i> a vanity tossed to and fro of them that seek death.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/49-16.htm">Psalm 49:16-20</a></b></br> Be not thou afraid when one is made rich, when the glory of his house is increased; … </p><p class="hdg">get understanding</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/119-104.htm">Psalm 119:104</a></b></br> Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/proverbs/4-5.htm">Acquire</a> <a href="/proverbs/1-3.htm">Acquiring</a> <a href="/proverbs/3-9.htm">Beginning</a> <a href="/ezra/6-4.htm">Cost</a> <a href="/1_chronicles/21-24.htm">Costs</a> <a href="/proverbs/3-9.htm">First</a> <a href="/proverbs/4-2.htm">Getting</a> <a href="/proverbs/4-5.htm">Insight</a> <a href="/proverbs/4-5.htm">Intelligence</a> <a href="/psalms/105-21.htm">Possessions</a> <a href="/nehemiah/11-17.htm">Principal</a> <a href="/psalms/104-19.htm">Sign</a> <a href="/1_peter/2-13.htm">Supreme</a> <a href="/proverbs/4-5.htm">True.</a> <a href="/proverbs/4-5.htm">Understanding</a> <a href="/psalms/135-6.htm">Whatever</a> <a href="/proverbs/4-6.htm">Wisdom</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/proverbs/14-18.htm">Acquire</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-9.htm">Acquiring</a> <a href="/proverbs/8-22.htm">Beginning</a> <a href="/proverbs/7-23.htm">Cost</a> <a href="/proverbs/6-31.htm">Costs</a> <a href="/proverbs/4-18.htm">First</a> <a href="/proverbs/4-18.htm">Getting</a> <a href="/proverbs/5-1.htm">Insight</a> <a href="/proverbs/7-4.htm">Intelligence</a> <a href="/proverbs/12-27.htm">Possessions</a> <a href="/isaiah/16-8.htm">Principal</a> <a href="/proverbs/7-13.htm">Sign</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-4.htm">Supreme</a> <a href="/proverbs/8-6.htm">True.</a> <a href="/proverbs/5-1.htm">Understanding</a> <a href="/proverbs/16-3.htm">Whatever</a> <a href="/proverbs/4-11.htm">Wisdom</a><div class="vheading2">Proverbs 4</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/4-1.htm">persuades to wisdom</a></span><br><span class="reftext">14. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/4-14.htm">and to show wickedness</a></span><br><span class="reftext">20. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/4-20.htm">He exhorts to sanctification</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/proverbs/4.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/proverbs/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/proverbs/4.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>Wisdom is supreme;</b><br>In the biblical context, wisdom is often portrayed as a divine attribute, reflecting God's character and His creation's order. The Hebrew word for wisdom, "chokmah," encompasses not just knowledge but also the skillful application of knowledge in daily life. Wisdom's supremacy is emphasized throughout the book of Proverbs, highlighting its value above material wealth and earthly power. This phrase underscores the importance of prioritizing wisdom in one's life, aligning with the biblical theme that true wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord (<a href="/proverbs/9-10.htm">Proverbs 9:10</a>).<p><b>so acquire wisdom.</b><br>The call to "acquire wisdom" suggests an active pursuit, indicating that wisdom is not innate but must be sought after diligently. This pursuit is akin to a treasure hunt, as described in <a href="/proverbs/2-4.htm">Proverbs 2:4</a>, where wisdom is compared to silver and hidden treasures. The cultural context of ancient Israel placed a high value on wisdom, often associating it with the ability to lead and govern effectively, as seen in the example of King Solomon, who asked God for wisdom to rule his people (<a href="/1_kings/3-9.htm">1 Kings 3:9-12</a>).<p><b>And whatever you may acquire,</b><br>This phrase implies that while one may gain various possessions or achievements in life, they should not overshadow the pursuit of wisdom. The historical context of the ancient Near East often equated wealth and power with success, yet the biblical narrative consistently elevates wisdom as the ultimate goal. This aligns with Jesus' teaching in the New Testament, where He emphasizes storing up treasures in heaven rather than on earth (<a href="/matthew/6-19.htm">Matthew 6:19-20</a>).<p><b>gain understanding.</b><br>Understanding, closely related to wisdom, involves discernment and insight into the complexities of life. It is the ability to see beyond the surface and grasp the deeper truths. In the biblical tradition, understanding is often linked with moral and spiritual insight, enabling one to live righteously. The call to gain understanding complements the pursuit of wisdom, as both are necessary for a life that honors God. This echoes the New Testament exhortation in <a href="/ephesians/5-17.htm">Ephesians 5:17</a> to understand what the Lord's will is, further connecting the Old and New Testament teachings on wisdom and understanding.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/s/solomon.htm">Solomon</a></b><br>- Traditionally considered the author of Proverbs, Solomon was known for his wisdom, which he famously requested from God. His writings often emphasize the value of wisdom and understanding.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/i/israel.htm">Israel</a></b><br>- The nation to whom Solomon originally addressed his teachings. The cultural and religious context of Israel during Solomon's reign is essential for understanding the emphasis on wisdom.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_father_and_son.htm">The Father and Son</a></b><br>- <a href="/bsb/proverbs/4.htm">Proverbs 4</a> is framed as a father instructing his son, symbolizing the passing of wisdom from one generation to the next.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_supremacy_of_wisdom.htm">The Supremacy of Wisdom</a></b><br>Wisdom is described as "supreme," indicating its utmost importance in the life of a believer. Prioritize seeking wisdom above other pursuits.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/a/active_pursuit.htm">Active Pursuit</a></b><br>The command to "acquire wisdom" suggests an active, intentional pursuit. Engage in regular study of Scripture and prayer to grow in wisdom.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/u/understanding_as_a_companion_to_wisdom.htm">Understanding as a Companion to Wisdom</a></b><br>Understanding is closely linked with wisdom. Seek to not only know facts but to comprehend and apply them in life.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/g/generational_transmission.htm">Generational Transmission</a></b><br>Like the father instructing his son, pass on wisdom to the next generation. Mentor and teach others in the ways of godly wisdom.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_cost_of_wisdom.htm">The Cost of Wisdom</a></b><br>"Whatever you may acquire" implies that gaining wisdom may require sacrifice. Be willing to give up lesser pursuits for the sake of true understanding.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_proverbs_4.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 4</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_defines_a_teachable_spirit.htm">What defines a teachable spirit?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_does_christianity_affect_graduation.htm">How does Christianity influence graduation perspectives?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/two_or_three_witnesses_needed.htm">When should you search and when should you give up?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_defines_aristotelianism.htm">What defines Aristotelianism in philosophy?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/proverbs/4.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(7) <span class= "bld">Wisdom is the principal thing </span>. . .--This may also be translated, <span class= "ital">The beginning of wisdom is Get </span>(or, <span class= "ital">to get, </span>comp. <a href="/proverbs/16-16.htm" title="How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!">Proverbs 16:16</a>) <span class= "ital">wisdom: and with </span>(<span class= "ital">i.e., </span>at the price of) <span class= "ital">all thou hast gotten </span>(thy possessions) <span class= "ital">get understanding.</span><p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/proverbs/4.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 7.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom.</span> The older versions, such as the Alexandrian LXX. (the verse is omitted by the Vatican LXX.), Targum, and Syriac, agree in rendering this verse, "The beginning of wisdom is get wisdom," which is equivalent to saying that the beginning of wisdom consists in the acquisition of wisdom, or, as Umbreit explains, "in the resolution to get wisdom." That this rendering, which is adopted by Luther, Delitzsch, and Umbreit, may be correct appears from <a href="/proverbs/1-7.htm">Proverbs 1:7</a> and Proverbs 9:10, where we have the same construction, only in inverted order. Seneca's aphorism is conceived in much the same spirit: "Magna pars boni est velle fieri bonum" - "A large part of good is the wish to become good;" <span class="accented">i.e.</span> that the beginning of being good depends to a large extent upon the wish to become so. The objections to this rendering are: <p><span class="note_emph">(1)</span> That it is difficult to see how the beginning of wisdom can be the acquisition of it. <p><span class="note_emph">(2)</span> That elsewhere, as in <a href="/proverbs/1-7.htm">Proverbs 1:7</a> and Proverbs 9:10, the beginning of wisdom is represented as the fear of the Lord. <p><span class="note_emph">(3)</span> That it does not fall in well with the context or with the aim of the father's teaching, which is to hold up wisdom as pre-eminently a blessing, as the most excellent and highest thing attainable. On the other hand, Hitzig, De Dieu, Doderlein, Zockler, render as in the Authorized Version, "Wisdom is the principal thing, therefore get wisdom;" <span class="accented">i.e.</span> wisdom is the highest good, and therefore ought to be obtained. The word <span class="accented">reshith</span> is found with this signification in ch. 24:20; <a href="/1_samuel/2-29.htm">1 Samuel 2:29</a>; <a href="/job/40-19.htm">Job 40:19</a>; <a href="/jeremiah/49-35.htm">Jeremiah 49:35</a>; <a href="/amos/6-1.htm">Amos 6:1-6</a>. <span class="cmt_word">And with all thy getting get understanding</span>. This does not mean, as the Authorized Version seems to imply, that while you are acquiring other things, you are to acquire wisdom, but that wisdom is to be purchased with all you have acquired or gotten. "Getting" (<span class="accented">kin'yon</span>) is the purchase money. No price is too high to be paid for her, no sacrifice too great; cf. the parables of the hidden treasure and goodly pearl (<a href="/matthew/13-44.htm">Matthew 13:44</a>: <a href="/luke/10-42.htm">Luke 10:42</a>), in both of which the man sold "all that he had" to obtain the prize. There is a play upon the words in the original (<span class="accented">kin'yan'ki k'neh</span>), which is preserved in our translation. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/proverbs/4-7.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">Wisdom</span><br /><span class="heb">חָ֭כְמָה</span> <span class="translit">(ḥāḵ·māh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - feminine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2451.htm">Strong's 2451: </a> </span><span class="str2">Wisdom</span><br /><br /><span class="word">is supreme;</span><br /><span class="heb">רֵאשִׁ֣ית</span> <span class="translit">(rê·šîṯ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - feminine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7225.htm">Strong's 7225: </a> </span><span class="str2">The first, in place, time, order, rank</span><br /><br /><span class="word">therefore acquire</span><br /><span class="heb">קְנֵ֣ה</span> <span class="translit">(qə·nêh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7069.htm">Strong's 7069: </a> </span><span class="str2">To erect, create, to procure, by purchase, to own</span><br /><br /><span class="word">wisdom.</span><br /><span class="heb">חָכְמָ֑ה</span> <span class="translit">(ḥāḵ·māh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - feminine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2451.htm">Strong's 2451: </a> </span><span class="str2">Wisdom</span><br /><br /><span class="word">And whatever</span><br /><span class="heb">וּבְכָל־</span> <span class="translit">(ū·ḇə·ḵāl)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw, Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3605.htm">Strong's 3605: </a> </span><span class="str2">The whole, all, any, every</span><br /><br /><span class="word">else you obtain,</span><br /><span class="heb">קִ֝נְיָנְךָ֗</span> <span class="translit">(qin·yā·nə·ḵā)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular construct | second person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7075.htm">Strong's 7075: </a> </span><span class="str2">Creation, creatures, acquisition, purchase, wealth</span><br /><br /><span class="word">gain</span><br /><span class="heb">קְנֵ֣ה</span> <span class="translit">(qə·nêh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7069.htm">Strong's 7069: </a> </span><span class="str2">To erect, create, to procure, by purchase, to own</span><br /><br /><span class="word">understanding.</span><br /><span class="heb">בִינָֽה׃</span> <span class="translit">(ḇî·nāh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - feminine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_998.htm">Strong's 998: </a> </span><span class="str2">An understanding</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/proverbs/4-7.htm">Proverbs 4:7 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/proverbs/4-7.htm">Proverbs 4:7 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/proverbs/4-7.htm">Proverbs 4:7 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/proverbs/4-7.htm">Proverbs 4:7 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/proverbs/4-7.htm">Proverbs 4:7 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/proverbs/4-7.htm">Proverbs 4:7 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/proverbs/4-7.htm">Proverbs 4:7 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/proverbs/4-7.htm">Proverbs 4:7 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/proverbs/4-7.htm">Proverbs 4:7 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/proverbs/4-7.htm">Proverbs 4:7 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/proverbs/4-7.htm">OT Poetry: Proverbs 4:7 Wisdom is supreme (Prov. 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