Proverbs 2:6
“For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.”
King James Version (KJV)
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In Proverbs 2 the father urges his son to dig for wisdom like hidden treasure; verse 6 supplies the reason the search succeeds -- God is the source who gives wisdom to those who seek it.
What Does Proverbs 2:6 Mean?
Wisdom is not merely earned by effort -- it is given by God. This verse explains why the search urged in the surrounding passage is worth every ounce of energy: the One who possesses all wisdom freely gives it. The seeker digs and cries out for understanding, yet the treasure itself is a gift placed in willing hands by the LORD.
The phrase "out of his mouth cometh knowledge" pictures wisdom as something God speaks -- the same mouth that called creation into order now speaks understanding into those who listen. This grounds knowledge in God's own character rather than in human cleverness. It also dignifies the search: because God is the giver, no honest seeker is left empty. The verse holds two truths together that Proverbs never separates. On one side, the reader is told to seek diligently, incline the ear, and apply the heart. On the other side, the result is a gift -- "the LORD giveth." Human effort and divine generosity work side by side, not in competition. The student studies; God grants insight. The one who asks, seeks, and listens discovers that understanding was waiting to be given all along. This keeps the wise person humble, knowing that what he has gained came ultimately from above.
In the Original Language
"Giveth" renders natan, to give or grant. "Wisdom" is chokmah, skill in living rightly, while "understanding" is tevunah, the discernment to apply knowledge well.
Cross References
“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”
- James 1:5
“And he changeth the times and the seasons... he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding.”
- Daniel 2:21
“Behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart.”
- 1 Kings 3:12
Application
Ask God for wisdom directly and expectantly, pairing diligent study with humble prayer, knowing the understanding you gain is His gift.