1 Doth not wisdom cry? and understanding put forth her voice?

2 She standeth in the top of high places, by the way in the places of the paths.

3 She crieth at the gates, at the entry of the city, at the coming in at the doors.

4 Unto you, O men, I call; and my voice is to the sons of man.

5 O ye simple, understand wisdom: and, ye fools, be ye of an understanding heart.

6 Hear; for I will speak of excellent things; and the opening of my lips shall be right things.

7 For my mouth shall speak truth; and wickedness is an abomination to my lips.

8 All the words of my mouth are in righteousness; there is nothing froward or perverse in them.

9 They are all plain to him that understandeth, and right to them that find knowledge.

10 Receive my instruction, and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold.

11 For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it.

12 I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions.

13 The fear of the Lord is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.

14 Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom: I am understanding; I have strength.

15 By me kings reign, and princes decree justice.

16 By me princes rule, and nobles, even all the judges of the earth.

17 I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.

18 Riches and honour are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness.

19 My fruit is better than gold, yea, than fine gold; and my revenue than choice silver.

20 I lead in the way of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of judgment:

21 That I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures.

22 The Lord possessed me in the beginning of his way, before his works of old.

23 I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was.

24 When there were no depths, I was brought forth; when there were no fountains abounding with water.

25 Before the mountains were settled, before the hills was I brought forth:

26 While as yet he had not made the earth, nor the fields, nor the highest part of the dust of the world.

27 When he prepared the heavens, I was there: when he set a compass upon the face of the depth:

28 When he established the clouds above: when he strengthened the fountains of the deep:

29 When he gave to the sea his decree, that the waters should not pass his commandment: when he appointed the foundations of the earth:

30 Then I was by him, as one brought up with him: and I was daily his delight, rejoicing always before him;

31 Rejoicing in the habitable part of his earth; and my delights were with the sons of men.

32 Now therefore hearken unto me, O ye children: for blessed are they that keep my ways.

33 Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not.

34 Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors.

35 For whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the Lord.

36 But he that sinneth against me wrongeth his own soul: all they that hate me love death.

Commentary

Verse 1

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ, as Wisdom, calls to the sons of men.
The will of God is made known by the works of creation, and by the consciences of men, but more clearly by Moses and the prophets. The chief difficulty is to get men to attend to instruction. Yet attention to the words of Christ, will guide the most ignorant into saving knowledge of the truth. Where there is an understanding heart, and willingness to receive the truth in love, wisdom is valued above silver and gold.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Wisdom - It is a great question what this wisdom is. Some understand it of the Divine wisdom; others of the second person in the Godhead: and it cannot be denied that some passages best agree to the former, and others to the latter opinion. Possibly both may be joined together, and the chapter may be understood of Christ considered partly in his personal capacity, and partly in regard of his office, which was to impart the mind and will of God to mankind.
McArther Bible Commentary
wisdom. See note on Pro 1:21. The openness and public exposure of wisdom contrasts with the secrecy and intrigues of the wicked adulterers in chapter 7.
Bible Cross References
1 Corinthians 1:24 Proverbs 1:20 Proverbs 1:21 Proverbs 9:3

Verse 2

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ, as Wisdom, calls to the sons of men.
The will of God is made known by the works of creation, and by the consciences of men, but more clearly by Moses and the prophets. The chief difficulty is to get men to attend to instruction. Yet attention to the words of Christ, will guide the most ignorant into saving knowledge of the truth. Where there is an understanding heart, and willingness to receive the truth in love, wisdom is valued above silver and gold.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
High place - Where she may be best seen and heard. Paths - Where many paths meet, where there is a great concourse, and where travellers may need direction.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 9:3 Proverbs 9:14

Verse 3

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ, as Wisdom, calls to the sons of men.
The will of God is made known by the works of creation, and by the consciences of men, but more clearly by Moses and the prophets. The chief difficulty is to get men to attend to instruction. Yet attention to the words of Christ, will guide the most ignorant into saving knowledge of the truth. Where there is an understanding heart, and willingness to receive the truth in love, wisdom is valued above silver and gold.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Gates - The places of judgment, and of the confluence of people. The entry - To invite passengers at their first coming and to conduct them to her house. The doors - Of her house.
Bible Cross References
Job 29:7 Proverbs 8:4

Verse 4

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ, as Wisdom, calls to the sons of men.
The will of God is made known by the works of creation, and by the consciences of men, but more clearly by Moses and the prophets. The chief difficulty is to get men to attend to instruction. Yet attention to the words of Christ, will guide the most ignorant into saving knowledge of the truth. Where there is an understanding heart, and willingness to receive the truth in love, wisdom is valued above silver and gold.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
O men - To all men without exception.
McArther Bible Commentary
simple ones. See note on Pro 1:4.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 8:3 Proverbs 8:5

Verse 5

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ, as Wisdom, calls to the sons of men.
The will of God is made known by the works of creation, and by the consciences of men, but more clearly by Moses and the prophets. The chief difficulty is to get men to attend to instruction. Yet attention to the words of Christ, will guide the most ignorant into saving knowledge of the truth. Where there is an understanding heart, and willingness to receive the truth in love, wisdom is valued above silver and gold.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Ye simple - Who want knowledge, and experience. Fools - Wilful sinners.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 1:4 Proverbs 1:22 Proverbs 1:32 Proverbs 3:35 Proverbs 8:4 Proverbs 8:12 Proverbs 9:4

Verse 6

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ, as Wisdom, calls to the sons of men.
The will of God is made known by the works of creation, and by the consciences of men, but more clearly by Moses and the prophets. The chief difficulty is to get men to attend to instruction. Yet attention to the words of Christ, will guide the most ignorant into saving knowledge of the truth. Where there is an understanding heart, and willingness to receive the truth in love, wisdom is valued above silver and gold.
McArther Bible Commentary
The virtues of wisdom are summarized in all that is excellent, right, true, and righteous.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 22:20 Proverbs 23:16

Verse 7

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ, as Wisdom, calls to the sons of men.
The will of God is made known by the works of creation, and by the consciences of men, but more clearly by Moses and the prophets. The chief difficulty is to get men to attend to instruction. Yet attention to the words of Christ, will guide the most ignorant into saving knowledge of the truth. Where there is an understanding heart, and willingness to receive the truth in love, wisdom is valued above silver and gold.
Bible Cross References
John 8:14 Romans 15:8 Psalm 37:30

Verse 8

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ, as Wisdom, calls to the sons of men.
The will of God is made known by the works of creation, and by the consciences of men, but more clearly by Moses and the prophets. The chief difficulty is to get men to attend to instruction. Yet attention to the words of Christ, will guide the most ignorant into saving knowledge of the truth. Where there is an understanding heart, and willingness to receive the truth in love, wisdom is valued above silver and gold.
Bible Cross References
Philippians 2:15 Deuteronomy 32:5 Proverbs 2:15

Verse 9

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ, as Wisdom, calls to the sons of men.
The will of God is made known by the works of creation, and by the consciences of men, but more clearly by Moses and the prophets. The chief difficulty is to get men to attend to instruction. Yet attention to the words of Christ, will guide the most ignorant into saving knowledge of the truth. Where there is an understanding heart, and willingness to receive the truth in love, wisdom is valued above silver and gold.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
To him - Whose mind God hath enlightened. To them - That are truly wise.
McArther Bible Commentary
plain. Lit. "clear." The one who applies his mind to the wisdom of God will understand and gain moral knowledge and the insight to recognize truth. Cf. 1Co 1:18-25.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 3:13 Proverbs 14:6

Verse 10

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ, as Wisdom, calls to the sons of men.
The will of God is made known by the works of creation, and by the consciences of men, but more clearly by Moses and the prophets. The chief difficulty is to get men to attend to instruction. Yet attention to the words of Christ, will guide the most ignorant into saving knowledge of the truth. Where there is an understanding heart, and willingness to receive the truth in love, wisdom is valued above silver and gold.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
And not silver - Rather than silver.
McArther Bible Commentary
The most valuable reality a young person can attain is the insight to order his life by the standard of truth (see notes on Pro 3:14-15; Pro 8:18-21; also Job 28:12-28; Psa 19:10).
Bible Cross References
Job 28:15 Job 28:17 Psalm 119:72 Proverbs 3:14 Proverbs 3:15 Proverbs 8:19 Proverbs 16:16 Ecclesiastes 7:11

Verse 11

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ, as Wisdom, calls to the sons of men.
The will of God is made known by the works of creation, and by the consciences of men, but more clearly by Moses and the prophets. The chief difficulty is to get men to attend to instruction. Yet attention to the words of Christ, will guide the most ignorant into saving knowledge of the truth. Where there is an understanding heart, and willingness to receive the truth in love, wisdom is valued above silver and gold.
Bible Cross References
Job 28:15 Job 28:18 Psalm 19:10 Psalm 119:72 Psalm 119:103 Proverbs 3:15 Proverbs 31:10 Ecclesiastes 7:11

Verse 12

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The nature and riches of Wisdom.
Wisdom, here is Christ, in whom are all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge; it is Christ in the word, and Christ in the heart; not only Christ revealed to us, but Christ revealed in us. All prudence and skill are from the Lord. Through the redemption of Christ's precious blood, the riches of his grace abound in all wisdom and prudence. Man found out many inventions for ruin; God found one for our recovery. He hates pride and arrogance, evil ways and froward conversation; these render men unwilling to hear his humbling, awakening, holy instructions. True religion gives men the best counsel in all difficult cases, and helps to make their way plain. His wisdom makes all truly happy who receive it in the love of Christ Jesus. Seek him early, seek him earnestly, seek him before any thing else. Christ never said, Seek in vain. Those who love Christ, are such as have seen his loveliness, and have had his love shed abroad in their hearts; therefore they are happy. They shall be happy in this world, or in that which is beyond compare better. Wealth gotten by vanity will soon be diminished, but that which is well got, will wear well; and that which is well spent upon works of piety and charity, will be lasting. If they have not riches and honour in this world, they shall have that which is infinitely better. They shall be happy in the grace of God. Christ, by his Spirit, guides believers into all truth, and so leads them in the way of righteousness; and they walk after the Spirit. Also, they shall be happy in the glory of God hereafter. In Wisdom's promises, believers have goods laid up, not for days and years, but for eternity; her fruit therefore is better than gold.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
I dwell - My inseparable companion is prudence to govern all my actions, and to direct the actions of others. Find out - I help men to find out. Inventions - Of all ingenious contrivances for the glory of God, and for the good of men.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 1:4 Proverbs 8:5

Verse 13

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The nature and riches of Wisdom.
Wisdom, here is Christ, in whom are all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge; it is Christ in the word, and Christ in the heart; not only Christ revealed to us, but Christ revealed in us. All prudence and skill are from the Lord. Through the redemption of Christ's precious blood, the riches of his grace abound in all wisdom and prudence. Man found out many inventions for ruin; God found one for our recovery. He hates pride and arrogance, evil ways and froward conversation; these render men unwilling to hear his humbling, awakening, holy instructions. True religion gives men the best counsel in all difficult cases, and helps to make their way plain. His wisdom makes all truly happy who receive it in the love of Christ Jesus. Seek him early, seek him earnestly, seek him before any thing else. Christ never said, Seek in vain. Those who love Christ, are such as have seen his loveliness, and have had his love shed abroad in their hearts; therefore they are happy. They shall be happy in this world, or in that which is beyond compare better. Wealth gotten by vanity will soon be diminished, but that which is well got, will wear well; and that which is well spent upon works of piety and charity, will be lasting. If they have not riches and honour in this world, they shall have that which is infinitely better. They shall be happy in the grace of God. Christ, by his Spirit, guides believers into all truth, and so leads them in the way of righteousness; and they walk after the Spirit. Also, they shall be happy in the glory of God hereafter. In Wisdom's promises, believers have goods laid up, not for days and years, but for eternity; her fruit therefore is better than gold.
McArther Bible Commentary
The fear of the Lord. See note on Pro 1:7. arrogance … hate. Wisdom hates what God hates (cf. Pro 6:16-19; Psa 5:5). The highest virtue is humility (submission to God), and, thus, wisdom hates pride and self-exaltation above all.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 2:3 Job 1:1 Psalm 97:10 Proverbs 3:7 Proverbs 6:12 Proverbs 15:9 Proverbs 16:6 Proverbs 16:18 Isaiah 13:11

Verse 14

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The nature and riches of Wisdom.
Wisdom, here is Christ, in whom are all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge; it is Christ in the word, and Christ in the heart; not only Christ revealed to us, but Christ revealed in us. All prudence and skill are from the Lord. Through the redemption of Christ's precious blood, the riches of his grace abound in all wisdom and prudence. Man found out many inventions for ruin; God found one for our recovery. He hates pride and arrogance, evil ways and froward conversation; these render men unwilling to hear his humbling, awakening, holy instructions. True religion gives men the best counsel in all difficult cases, and helps to make their way plain. His wisdom makes all truly happy who receive it in the love of Christ Jesus. Seek him early, seek him earnestly, seek him before any thing else. Christ never said, Seek in vain. Those who love Christ, are such as have seen his loveliness, and have had his love shed abroad in their hearts; therefore they are happy. They shall be happy in this world, or in that which is beyond compare better. Wealth gotten by vanity will soon be diminished, but that which is well got, will wear well; and that which is well spent upon works of piety and charity, will be lasting. If they have not riches and honour in this world, they shall have that which is infinitely better. They shall be happy in the grace of God. Christ, by his Spirit, guides believers into all truth, and so leads them in the way of righteousness; and they walk after the Spirit. Also, they shall be happy in the glory of God hereafter. In Wisdom's promises, believers have goods laid up, not for days and years, but for eternity; her fruit therefore is better than gold.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Wisdom - All solid and substantial and useful wisdom is assential to me.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 1:25 Proverbs 2:7 Proverbs 3:21 Proverbs 18:1 Proverbs 19:20 Ecclesiastes 7:19 Ecclesiastes 9:16 Isaiah 28:29 Jeremiah 32:19

Verse 15

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The nature and riches of Wisdom.
Wisdom, here is Christ, in whom are all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge; it is Christ in the word, and Christ in the heart; not only Christ revealed to us, but Christ revealed in us. All prudence and skill are from the Lord. Through the redemption of Christ's precious blood, the riches of his grace abound in all wisdom and prudence. Man found out many inventions for ruin; God found one for our recovery. He hates pride and arrogance, evil ways and froward conversation; these render men unwilling to hear his humbling, awakening, holy instructions. True religion gives men the best counsel in all difficult cases, and helps to make their way plain. His wisdom makes all truly happy who receive it in the love of Christ Jesus. Seek him early, seek him earnestly, seek him before any thing else. Christ never said, Seek in vain. Those who love Christ, are such as have seen his loveliness, and have had his love shed abroad in their hearts; therefore they are happy. They shall be happy in this world, or in that which is beyond compare better. Wealth gotten by vanity will soon be diminished, but that which is well got, will wear well; and that which is well spent upon works of piety and charity, will be lasting. If they have not riches and honour in this world, they shall have that which is infinitely better. They shall be happy in the grace of God. Christ, by his Spirit, guides believers into all truth, and so leads them in the way of righteousness; and they walk after the Spirit. Also, they shall be happy in the glory of God hereafter. In Wisdom's promises, believers have goods laid up, not for days and years, but for eternity; her fruit therefore is better than gold.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
By me - They rule their kingdoms wisely and justly, by my counsel and assistance. Their injustice is from themselves, but all the good they do, they owe to my conduct.
McArther Bible Commentary
kings … rulers … princes … nobles. In this royal court setting, Solomon addresses his son as a future king. All these leaders should do their work by God's wisdom and justice. Cf. Rom 13:1-2.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 28:18 Romans 13:1 2 Chronicles 1:10 Psalm 2:10 Proverbs 8:16 Proverbs 29:4 Daniel 2:21

Verse 16

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The nature and riches of Wisdom.
Wisdom, here is Christ, in whom are all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge; it is Christ in the word, and Christ in the heart; not only Christ revealed to us, but Christ revealed in us. All prudence and skill are from the Lord. Through the redemption of Christ's precious blood, the riches of his grace abound in all wisdom and prudence. Man found out many inventions for ruin; God found one for our recovery. He hates pride and arrogance, evil ways and froward conversation; these render men unwilling to hear his humbling, awakening, holy instructions. True religion gives men the best counsel in all difficult cases, and helps to make their way plain. His wisdom makes all truly happy who receive it in the love of Christ Jesus. Seek him early, seek him earnestly, seek him before any thing else. Christ never said, Seek in vain. Those who love Christ, are such as have seen his loveliness, and have had his love shed abroad in their hearts; therefore they are happy. They shall be happy in this world, or in that which is beyond compare better. Wealth gotten by vanity will soon be diminished, but that which is well got, will wear well; and that which is well spent upon works of piety and charity, will be lasting. If they have not riches and honour in this world, they shall have that which is infinitely better. They shall be happy in the grace of God. Christ, by his Spirit, guides believers into all truth, and so leads them in the way of righteousness; and they walk after the Spirit. Also, they shall be happy in the glory of God hereafter. In Wisdom's promises, believers have goods laid up, not for days and years, but for eternity; her fruit therefore is better than gold.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 8:15 Proverbs 8:17

Verse 17

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The nature and riches of Wisdom.
Wisdom, here is Christ, in whom are all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge; it is Christ in the word, and Christ in the heart; not only Christ revealed to us, but Christ revealed in us. All prudence and skill are from the Lord. Through the redemption of Christ's precious blood, the riches of his grace abound in all wisdom and prudence. Man found out many inventions for ruin; God found one for our recovery. He hates pride and arrogance, evil ways and froward conversation; these render men unwilling to hear his humbling, awakening, holy instructions. True religion gives men the best counsel in all difficult cases, and helps to make their way plain. His wisdom makes all truly happy who receive it in the love of Christ Jesus. Seek him early, seek him earnestly, seek him before any thing else. Christ never said, Seek in vain. Those who love Christ, are such as have seen his loveliness, and have had his love shed abroad in their hearts; therefore they are happy. They shall be happy in this world, or in that which is beyond compare better. Wealth gotten by vanity will soon be diminished, but that which is well got, will wear well; and that which is well spent upon works of piety and charity, will be lasting. If they have not riches and honour in this world, they shall have that which is infinitely better. They shall be happy in the grace of God. Christ, by his Spirit, guides believers into all truth, and so leads them in the way of righteousness; and they walk after the Spirit. Also, they shall be happy in the glory of God hereafter. In Wisdom's promises, believers have goods laid up, not for days and years, but for eternity; her fruit therefore is better than gold.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
I love - I do not despise their love, but kindly accept it and recompence it with my love and favour. Early - With sincere affection and diligence, which he mentions as the evidence of their love.
McArther Bible Commentary
love. Wisdom's love for the person who receives it is proven by the benefits mentioned in verses Pro 8:18-21.
Bible Cross References
John 7:37 John 14:21 James 1:5 1 Samuel 2:30 2 Chronicles 34:3 Proverbs 1:28 Proverbs 2:4 Proverbs 2:5 Proverbs 4:6 Proverbs 8:16 Song of Solomon 3:4

Verse 18

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The nature and riches of Wisdom.
Wisdom, here is Christ, in whom are all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge; it is Christ in the word, and Christ in the heart; not only Christ revealed to us, but Christ revealed in us. All prudence and skill are from the Lord. Through the redemption of Christ's precious blood, the riches of his grace abound in all wisdom and prudence. Man found out many inventions for ruin; God found one for our recovery. He hates pride and arrogance, evil ways and froward conversation; these render men unwilling to hear his humbling, awakening, holy instructions. True religion gives men the best counsel in all difficult cases, and helps to make their way plain. His wisdom makes all truly happy who receive it in the love of Christ Jesus. Seek him early, seek him earnestly, seek him before any thing else. Christ never said, Seek in vain. Those who love Christ, are such as have seen his loveliness, and have had his love shed abroad in their hearts; therefore they are happy. They shall be happy in this world, or in that which is beyond compare better. Wealth gotten by vanity will soon be diminished, but that which is well got, will wear well; and that which is well spent upon works of piety and charity, will be lasting. If they have not riches and honour in this world, they shall have that which is infinitely better. They shall be happy in the grace of God. Christ, by his Spirit, guides believers into all truth, and so leads them in the way of righteousness; and they walk after the Spirit. Also, they shall be happy in the glory of God hereafter. In Wisdom's promises, believers have goods laid up, not for days and years, but for eternity; her fruit therefore is better than gold.
McArther Bible Commentary
Riches and honor. Cf. Pro 3:16; Pro 22:4. Solomon, who was given great wisdom, experienced its wealth of benefits firsthand as a young king (cf. 1Ki 3:12-14; 1Ki 10:14-29).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 6:33 Psalm 112:3 Proverbs 3:16

Verse 19

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The nature and riches of Wisdom.
Wisdom, here is Christ, in whom are all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge; it is Christ in the word, and Christ in the heart; not only Christ revealed to us, but Christ revealed in us. All prudence and skill are from the Lord. Through the redemption of Christ's precious blood, the riches of his grace abound in all wisdom and prudence. Man found out many inventions for ruin; God found one for our recovery. He hates pride and arrogance, evil ways and froward conversation; these render men unwilling to hear his humbling, awakening, holy instructions. True religion gives men the best counsel in all difficult cases, and helps to make their way plain. His wisdom makes all truly happy who receive it in the love of Christ Jesus. Seek him early, seek him earnestly, seek him before any thing else. Christ never said, Seek in vain. Those who love Christ, are such as have seen his loveliness, and have had his love shed abroad in their hearts; therefore they are happy. They shall be happy in this world, or in that which is beyond compare better. Wealth gotten by vanity will soon be diminished, but that which is well got, will wear well; and that which is well spent upon works of piety and charity, will be lasting. If they have not riches and honour in this world, they shall have that which is infinitely better. They shall be happy in the grace of God. Christ, by his Spirit, guides believers into all truth, and so leads them in the way of righteousness; and they walk after the Spirit. Also, they shall be happy in the glory of God hereafter. In Wisdom's promises, believers have goods laid up, not for days and years, but for eternity; her fruit therefore is better than gold.
Bible Cross References
Job 28:15 Job 28:19 Proverbs 3:14 Proverbs 8:10 Proverbs 8:20 Proverbs 10:20 Proverbs 16:16

Verse 20

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The nature and riches of Wisdom.
Wisdom, here is Christ, in whom are all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge; it is Christ in the word, and Christ in the heart; not only Christ revealed to us, but Christ revealed in us. All prudence and skill are from the Lord. Through the redemption of Christ's precious blood, the riches of his grace abound in all wisdom and prudence. Man found out many inventions for ruin; God found one for our recovery. He hates pride and arrogance, evil ways and froward conversation; these render men unwilling to hear his humbling, awakening, holy instructions. True religion gives men the best counsel in all difficult cases, and helps to make their way plain. His wisdom makes all truly happy who receive it in the love of Christ Jesus. Seek him early, seek him earnestly, seek him before any thing else. Christ never said, Seek in vain. Those who love Christ, are such as have seen his loveliness, and have had his love shed abroad in their hearts; therefore they are happy. They shall be happy in this world, or in that which is beyond compare better. Wealth gotten by vanity will soon be diminished, but that which is well got, will wear well; and that which is well spent upon works of piety and charity, will be lasting. If they have not riches and honour in this world, they shall have that which is infinitely better. They shall be happy in the grace of God. Christ, by his Spirit, guides believers into all truth, and so leads them in the way of righteousness; and they walk after the Spirit. Also, they shall be happy in the glory of God hereafter. In Wisdom's promises, believers have goods laid up, not for days and years, but for eternity; her fruit therefore is better than gold.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 23:3 Proverbs 2:9 Proverbs 8:19 Proverbs 8:21

Verse 21

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The nature and riches of Wisdom.
Wisdom, here is Christ, in whom are all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge; it is Christ in the word, and Christ in the heart; not only Christ revealed to us, but Christ revealed in us. All prudence and skill are from the Lord. Through the redemption of Christ's precious blood, the riches of his grace abound in all wisdom and prudence. Man found out many inventions for ruin; God found one for our recovery. He hates pride and arrogance, evil ways and froward conversation; these render men unwilling to hear his humbling, awakening, holy instructions. True religion gives men the best counsel in all difficult cases, and helps to make their way plain. His wisdom makes all truly happy who receive it in the love of Christ Jesus. Seek him early, seek him earnestly, seek him before any thing else. Christ never said, Seek in vain. Those who love Christ, are such as have seen his loveliness, and have had his love shed abroad in their hearts; therefore they are happy. They shall be happy in this world, or in that which is beyond compare better. Wealth gotten by vanity will soon be diminished, but that which is well got, will wear well; and that which is well spent upon works of piety and charity, will be lasting. If they have not riches and honour in this world, they shall have that which is infinitely better. They shall be happy in the grace of God. Christ, by his Spirit, guides believers into all truth, and so leads them in the way of righteousness; and they walk after the Spirit. Also, they shall be happy in the glory of God hereafter. In Wisdom's promises, believers have goods laid up, not for days and years, but for eternity; her fruit therefore is better than gold.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Substance - Substantial happiness: opposed to all worldly enjoyments, which are but mere shadows.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 8:20 Proverbs 10:22 Proverbs 15:6 Proverbs 21:20 Proverbs 24:4

Verse 22

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ one with the Father, in the creation of the world, and rejoicing in his work for the salvation of man.
The Son of God declares himself to have been engaged in the creation of the world. How able, how fit is the Son of God to be the Saviour of the world, who was the Creator of it! The Son of God was ordained, before the world, to that great work. Does he delight in saving wretched sinners, and shall not we delight in his salvation?
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Possessed me - As his son by eternal generation, before the beginning. Of old - His works of creation.
McArther Bible Commentary
The Lord possessed me. Cf. Pro 3:19-20. Personified wisdom existed before everything that God created, so that divine wisdom, like God, was eternally first. Christ used His eternal wisdom in creation (Joh 1:1-3; 1 Cor Pro 1:24, Pro 1:30).
Bible Cross References
Revelation 3:14 Job 28:23 Job 28:26 Psalm 104:24 Proverbs 3:19 Micah 5:2

Verse 23

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ one with the Father, in the creation of the world, and rejoicing in his work for the salvation of man.
The Son of God declares himself to have been engaged in the creation of the world. How able, how fit is the Son of God to be the Saviour of the world, who was the Creator of it! The Son of God was ordained, before the world, to that great work. Does he delight in saving wretched sinners, and shall not we delight in his salvation?
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Set up - Heb. anointed, constituted to be the person by whom the Father resolved to do all his works, to create, to uphold and govern and judge, to redeem and save the world. From the beginning - Before which, there was nothing but a vast eternity. The earth - Which together with the heaven, was the first of God's visible works.
Bible Cross References
John 1:1 John 17:5 Proverbs 4:7 Micah 5:2

Verse 24

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ one with the Father, in the creation of the world, and rejoicing in his work for the salvation of man.
The Son of God declares himself to have been engaged in the creation of the world. How able, how fit is the Son of God to be the Saviour of the world, who was the Creator of it! The Son of God was ordained, before the world, to that great work. Does he delight in saving wretched sinners, and shall not we delight in his salvation?
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
No depths - No abyss or deep waters. Brought forth - Begotten of my father.
McArther Bible Commentary
Note how these verses parallel the creation account in Genesis. The earth (Pro 8:23) with day one in Gen 1:1-5; water (Pro 8:24) with day two in Gen 1:6-8; and land (Pro 8:25-26) with day three in Gen 1:9-13.
Bible Cross References
Genesis 1:2 Exodus 15:5 Job 38:16 Proverbs 3:20

Verse 25

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ one with the Father, in the creation of the world, and rejoicing in his work for the salvation of man.
The Son of God declares himself to have been engaged in the creation of the world. How able, how fit is the Son of God to be the Saviour of the world, who was the Creator of it! The Son of God was ordained, before the world, to that great work. Does he delight in saving wretched sinners, and shall not we delight in his salvation?
Bible Cross References
Job 15:7 Psalm 90:2 Proverbs 8:26

Verse 26

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ one with the Father, in the creation of the world, and rejoicing in his work for the salvation of man.
The Son of God declares himself to have been engaged in the creation of the world. How able, how fit is the Son of God to be the Saviour of the world, who was the Creator of it! The Son of God was ordained, before the world, to that great work. Does he delight in saving wretched sinners, and shall not we delight in his salvation?
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The earth - The dry land called earth after it was separated from the waters (Genesis 1:10) . Fields - The plain and open parts of the earth distinguished from the mountains. Dust - Of this lower part of the world which consists of dust.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 8:25 Proverbs 8:27

Verse 27

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ one with the Father, in the creation of the world, and rejoicing in his work for the salvation of man.
The Son of God declares himself to have been engaged in the creation of the world. How able, how fit is the Son of God to be the Saviour of the world, who was the Creator of it! The Son of God was ordained, before the world, to that great work. Does he delight in saving wretched sinners, and shall not we delight in his salvation?
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
I was there - As co - worker with my Father. Depth - Of that great abyss of water and earth mixed together, which is called both earth and water and the deep, (Genesis 1:2) , when he made this lower world in the form of a globe.
McArther Bible Commentary
circle on the face of the deep. The Hebrew word for circle indicates that the earth is a globe; therefore, the horizon is circular (cf. Isa 40:22). This deep that surrounds the earth was the original world ocean that covered the surface of the earth before it was fully formed and given life (cf. Gen 1:2).
Bible Cross References
Job 26:10 Proverbs 3:19 Proverbs 8:26 Proverbs 8:28 Isaiah 40:22

Verse 28

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ one with the Father, in the creation of the world, and rejoicing in his work for the salvation of man.
The Son of God declares himself to have been engaged in the creation of the world. How able, how fit is the Son of God to be the Saviour of the world, who was the Creator of it! The Son of God was ordained, before the world, to that great work. Does he delight in saving wretched sinners, and shall not we delight in his salvation?
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Strengthened - When he shut up the fountains in the cavities of the earth, and kept them there as it were by a strong band. The deep - Which have their original from the deep, either from the sea, or from the abyss of waters in the bowels of the earth.
Bible Cross References
Job 38:16 Proverbs 3:19 Proverbs 8:27 Proverbs 8:29

Verse 29

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ one with the Father, in the creation of the world, and rejoicing in his work for the salvation of man.
The Son of God declares himself to have been engaged in the creation of the world. How able, how fit is the Son of God to be the Saviour of the world, who was the Creator of it! The Son of God was ordained, before the world, to that great work. Does he delight in saving wretched sinners, and shall not we delight in his salvation?
McArther Bible Commentary
sea its limit. In creation, God limited the waters on the earth (cf. Gen 1:9; Gen 7:11; Gen 8:2), commanding into existence shorelines beyond which the oceans cannot go. foundations. This figuratively denotes the solid structure of the earth (cf. Job 38:4; Psa 24:2).
Bible Cross References
Job 26:10 Job 38:4 Job 38:5 Job 38:6 Job 38:8 Job 38:10 Psalm 104:5 Psalm 104:9 Proverbs 8:28 Jeremiah 5:22

Verse 30

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ one with the Father, in the creation of the world, and rejoicing in his work for the salvation of man.
The Son of God declares himself to have been engaged in the creation of the world. How able, how fit is the Son of God to be the Saviour of the world, who was the Creator of it! The Son of God was ordained, before the world, to that great work. Does he delight in saving wretched sinners, and shall not we delight in his salvation?
McArther Bible Commentary
master craftsman. As translated in Son 7:1 and Jer 52:15, this term describes wisdom as competent and experienced in the craft of creation.
Bible Cross References
John 1:2 John 1:3

Verse 31

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ one with the Father, in the creation of the world, and rejoicing in his work for the salvation of man.
The Son of God declares himself to have been engaged in the creation of the world. How able, how fit is the Son of God to be the Saviour of the world, who was the Creator of it! The Son of God was ordained, before the world, to that great work. Does he delight in saving wretched sinners, and shall not we delight in his salvation?
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
My delights were - To uphold them by my power and providence, to reveal myself and my Father's will to them from age to age, to assume their nature, and to redeem and save them.
McArther Bible Commentary
my delight. When God rejoiced over His creation (Gen 1:31; Job 38:7), wisdom was also rejoicing, especially in the creation of mankind, who in the physical creation alone has the capacity to appreciate wisdom and truth.
Bible Cross References
John 13:1 Psalm 16:3

Verse 32

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to hear Christ's word.
Surely we should hearken to Christ's voice with the readiness of children. Let us all be wise, and not refuse such mercy. Blessed are those who hear the Saviour's voice, and wait on him with daily reading, meditation, and prayer. The children of the world find time for vain amusements, without neglecting what they deem the one thing needful. Does it not show contempt of Wisdom's instructions, when people professing godliness, seek excuses for neglecting the means of grace? Christ is Wisdom, and he is Life to all believers; nor can we obtain God's favour, unless we find Christ, and are found in him. Those who offend Christ deceive themselves; sin is a wrong to the soul. Sinners die because they will die, which justifies God when he judges.
Bible Cross References
Luke 11:28 2 Samuel 22:22 Job 28:22 Psalm 18:21 Psalm 119:1 Psalm 119:2 Psalm 128:1 Proverbs 3:13 Proverbs 5:7 Proverbs 7:24 Proverbs 29:18

Verse 33

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to hear Christ's word.
Surely we should hearken to Christ's voice with the readiness of children. Let us all be wise, and not refuse such mercy. Blessed are those who hear the Saviour's voice, and wait on him with daily reading, meditation, and prayer. The children of the world find time for vain amusements, without neglecting what they deem the one thing needful. Does it not show contempt of Wisdom's instructions, when people professing godliness, seek excuses for neglecting the means of grace? Christ is Wisdom, and he is Life to all believers; nor can we obtain God's favour, unless we find Christ, and are found in him. Those who offend Christ deceive themselves; sin is a wrong to the soul. Sinners die because they will die, which justifies God when he judges.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 4:1 Proverbs 15:32 Proverbs 19:20

Verse 34

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to hear Christ's word.
Surely we should hearken to Christ's voice with the readiness of children. Let us all be wise, and not refuse such mercy. Blessed are those who hear the Saviour's voice, and wait on him with daily reading, meditation, and prayer. The children of the world find time for vain amusements, without neglecting what they deem the one thing needful. Does it not show contempt of Wisdom's instructions, when people professing godliness, seek excuses for neglecting the means of grace? Christ is Wisdom, and he is Life to all believers; nor can we obtain God's favour, unless we find Christ, and are found in him. Those who offend Christ deceive themselves; sin is a wrong to the soul. Sinners die because they will die, which justifies God when he judges.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Waiting - As servants or clients, wait at the doors of princes or persons of eminency.
Bible Cross References
Exodus 12:7 1 Kings 10:8 Proverbs 3:13 Proverbs 3:18

Verse 35

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to hear Christ's word.
Surely we should hearken to Christ's voice with the readiness of children. Let us all be wise, and not refuse such mercy. Blessed are those who hear the Saviour's voice, and wait on him with daily reading, meditation, and prayer. The children of the world find time for vain amusements, without neglecting what they deem the one thing needful. Does it not show contempt of Wisdom's instructions, when people professing godliness, seek excuses for neglecting the means of grace? Christ is Wisdom, and he is Life to all believers; nor can we obtain God's favour, unless we find Christ, and are found in him. Those who offend Christ deceive themselves; sin is a wrong to the soul. Sinners die because they will die, which justifies God when he judges.
Bible Cross References
John 17:3 Proverbs 3:4 Proverbs 3:22 Proverbs 4:22 Proverbs 9:6 Proverbs 12:2 Proverbs 18:22 Ecclesiastes 7:12

Verse 36

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to hear Christ's word.
Surely we should hearken to Christ's voice with the readiness of children. Let us all be wise, and not refuse such mercy. Blessed are those who hear the Saviour's voice, and wait on him with daily reading, meditation, and prayer. The children of the world find time for vain amusements, without neglecting what they deem the one thing needful. Does it not show contempt of Wisdom's instructions, when people professing godliness, seek excuses for neglecting the means of grace? Christ is Wisdom, and he is Life to all believers; nor can we obtain God's favour, unless we find Christ, and are found in him. Those who offend Christ deceive themselves; sin is a wrong to the soul. Sinners die because they will die, which justifies God when he judges.
McArther Bible Commentary
hate me love death. Since wisdom is the source of life (see Pro 3:18), anyone who hates wisdom and spurns it is acting as if he loves death.
Bible Cross References
Job 35:6 Proverbs 1:31 Proverbs 1:32 Proverbs 5:12 Proverbs 12:1 Proverbs 15:32 Proverbs 20:2 Proverbs 21:6 Isaiah 3:9 Jeremiah 27:13