Proverbs 8:11-21

11 Wisdom is more precious than rubies. Nothing you could want is equal to it.
12 "I am wisdom, and I am smart. I also have knowledge and good sense.
13 If you respect the Lord, you will also hate evil. I hate pride and bragging, evil ways and lies.
14 I have good sense and advice, and I have understanding and power.
15 I help kings to govern and rulers to make fair laws.
16 Princes use me to lead, and so do all important people who judge fairly.
17 I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me.
18 Riches and honor are mine to give. So are wealth and lasting success.
19 What I give is better than the finest gold, better than the purest silver.
20 I do what is right and follow the path of justice.
21 I give wealth to those who love me, filling their houses with treasures.

Proverbs 8:11-21 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO PROVERBS 8

This chapter contains the instructions of Wisdom or Christ; showing the excellency of them, and the author of them, in opposition to the harlot and her allurements, in the preceding chapter. Christ, under the name of Wisdom, is represented as an herald, publishing the Gospel in the ministry of the word, either in person or by his servants, Pr 8:1. The places where this proclamation is made are described, Pr 8:2,3; the persons to whom, Pr 8:4,5. The excellency of the things delivered, being right things; truth, agreeably to the word of God, plain and easy to be understood, and of more worth than gold, silver, and precious stones, Pr 8:6-11. And then Wisdom, or Christ, is commended and recommended by his consummate prudence and knowledge, by his hatred of evil, and by his influence on the political affairs of kings and princes, Pr 8:12-16; and the advantages of those that are early seekers of him are pointed out; their enjoyment of his favour, of his riches, honour and righteousness; and their being led by him in right paths now, and inheriting eternal glory hereafter, Pr 8:17-21. And next follows an account of his existence from eternity as a divine Person, illustrated by a variety of phrases, Pr 8:22-29; and of his being with the Father; of his great affection for him, and complacency in him; and of Christ's wonderful delight and pleasure in the sons of men, Pr 8:30,31. And the chapter is concluded with an exhortation to them to hearken to his instructions; setting forth the happiness of those that wait on him in public ordinances, and find him; and the misery of those that hate and reject him.

Scripture taken from the New Century Version. Copyright © 1987, 1988, 1991 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.