Proverbs 1:2-6

The Beginning of Knowledge

2 To know wisdom and instruction,
to understand words of insight,
3 to receive instruction in wise dealing,
in b righteousness, justice, and equity;
4 to give prudence to c the simple,
knowledge and d discretion to the youth -
5 Let the wise hear and e increase in learning,
and the one who understands obtain guidance,
6 to understand a proverb and a saying,
f the words of the wise and their g riddles.

  1. Cross References
    Proverbs 2:9
    Then you will understand righteousness and justice and equity, every good path.
  2. Cross References
    Proverbs 8:5
    O simple ones, learn prudence; O fools, learn sense.
    Proverbs 14:15
    The simple believes everything, but the prudent gives thought to his steps.
    Proverbs 14:18
    The simple inherit folly, but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.
  3. Cross References
    Proverbs 2:11
    Discretion will watch over you, understanding will guard you.
    Proverbs 3:21
    My son, do not lose sight of these - keep sound wisdom and discretion.
  4. Cross References
    Proverbs 9:9
    Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; teach a righteous man, and he will increase in learning.
  5. Cross References
    Proverbs 22:17
    Incline your ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply your heart to my knowledge.
  6. Cross References
    Judges 14:12
    And Samson said to them, "Let me now put a riddle to you. If you can tell me what it is, within the seven days of the feast, and find it out, then I will give you thirty linen garments and thirty changes of clothes.
    Psalms 78:2
    I will open my mouth in a parable; I will utter dark sayings from of old.
English Standard Version (ESV) The Holy Bible, English Standard Version Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a division of Good News Publishers.