so acquire wisdom
The Hebrew verb "קָנָה" (qanah) translated as "acquire" implies an active pursuit or purchase. It suggests that wisdom is not passively received but must be diligently sought after, much like a valuable treasure. This pursuit requires intentionality and effort, reflecting the biblical principle that spiritual growth and understanding require dedication and perseverance. In the historical context, acquiring wisdom often involved learning from sages, studying the Scriptures, and observing the world through a God-centered lens. For the conservative Christian, this pursuit is rooted in a commitment to studying God's Word and seeking His guidance in all aspects of life.

And whatever you may acquire
This phrase emphasizes the importance of prioritizing wisdom above all other acquisitions. The Hebrew text suggests a sense of urgency and importance, indicating that no matter what else one may gain in life—be it wealth, power, or status—wisdom should be the foremost pursuit. This aligns with the biblical teaching that earthly possessions are temporary, but wisdom, rooted in the eternal truths of God, has lasting value. In a conservative Christian view, this serves as a reminder to focus on spiritual growth and understanding rather than the fleeting pleasures of the world.

gain understanding
The Hebrew word for "understanding" is "בִּינָה" (binah), which involves discernment and insight. It is the ability to see beyond the surface and comprehend deeper truths. Understanding complements wisdom by enabling one to apply knowledge effectively in various situations. The call to "gain understanding" suggests that it is not enough to possess wisdom; one must also develop the capacity to interpret and apply it in a way that aligns with God's will. For conservative Christians, this involves a continual process of learning and growing in faith, seeking the Holy Spirit's guidance to discern God's truth in every circumstance.

(1) That it is difficult to see how the beginning of wisdom can be the acquisition of it.

(2) That elsewhere, as in Proverbs 1:7 and Proverbs 9:10, the beginning of wisdom is represented as the fear of the Lord.

(3) 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;" i.e. wisdom is the highest good, and therefore ought to be obtained. The word reshith is found with this signification in ch. 24:20; 1 Samuel 2:29; Job 40:19; Jeremiah 49:35; Amos 6:1-6. And with all thy getting get understanding. 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" (kin'yon) 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 (Matthew 13:44: Luke 10:42), 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 (kin'yan'ki k'neh), which is preserved in our translation.

Parallel Commentaries ...