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    Wisdom & Reverence

    Proverbs 1:7 Commentary

    In-depth meaning, historical context, and practical application

    Written by Bible Sundays Editorial TeamChecked by Bible Sundays Scripture DeskLast reviewed August 1, 2026Our editorial standards
    "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction."
    — Proverbs 1:7 (KJV)
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    Introduction

    Proverbs 1:7 is the thesis statement of the entire book — arguably of all biblical wisdom literature. Genuine knowledge begins not with investigation but with reverence.

    Historical Context

    Solomon, who received supernatural wisdom from God, wrote most of Proverbs. What distinguishes biblical wisdom from other ancient wisdom literature is its theological foundation.

    Original Language Insights

    'Fear' (yir'ah) — awe, reverence, holy respect. Not terror but profound awareness of God's greatness.

    'Beginning' (reshit) — the foundational prerequisite.

    'Knowledge' (da'at) — experiential knowledge that transforms behavior.

    'Fools' (evilim) — not intellectually deficient but morally obstinate.

    'Despise' (bazu) — to hold in contempt, actively reject.

    Theological Significance

    All genuine knowledge is theological at its root. The problem with foolishness is volitional, not intellectual — fools 'despise' wisdom. Foolishness is a moral choice.

    Practical Application

    Begin every pursuit of knowledge with reverence for God. Examine whether you have the teachable spirit of the wise or the resistant spirit of the fool.

    Cross-References & Related Scriptures

    Psalm 111:10

    "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom."

    Parallel statement confirming this foundational principle.

    Job 28:28

    "The fear of the Lord, that is wisdom."

    Job reaches the same conclusion.

    Prayer Response

    Lord, I acknowledge that true knowledge begins with You. Give me a heart that fears You rightly — not with terror but with awe. Make me teachable and reverent. Amen.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What exactly is 'the fear of the LORD'?

    Not terror but reverent awe — the appropriate response to God's holiness, power, and love. It shapes behavior because you live before an all-seeing God.

    Read commentary on surrounding verses

    Continue studying Proverbs 1 verse by verse:

    After · Proverbs 1:8Exact verse

    My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother:

    Theme: Wisdom & Family

    After · Proverbs 1:9Exact verse

    For they shall be an ornament of grace unto thy head, and chains about thy neck.

    Theme: Wisdom & Beauty

    Nearest commentary in Proverbs

    Later · 1 ch forward · Proverbs 2:5Nearest chapter

    Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God.

    Theme: Fear of the LORD as Reward of Seeking

    Later · 1 ch forward · Proverbs 2:6Nearest chapter

    For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.

    Theme: Divine Wisdom

    Later · 1 ch forward · Proverbs 2:7Nearest chapter

    He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous: he is a buckler to them that walk uprightly.

    Theme: Wisdom Stored, Protection Promised

    Later · 2 ch forward · Proverbs 3:7-8Nearest chapter

    Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones.

    Theme: Humility and Health

    No previous chapter
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    Read Proverbs 2Commentary: Proverbs 2:7
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    Related Bible Questions

    Common questions people ask about this passage — answered with KJV scripture.

    What Does It Mean to Fear the Lord?

    The fear of the Lord is reverent awe and deep respect for God's holiness, power, and authority — it is the beginning of wisdom and the foundation of a righteous life.

    Read answer

    Wisdom vs. Knowledge — What's the Difference?

    Knowledge is the accumulation of facts and information; wisdom is the godly application of knowledge to life. Both begin with the fear of the Lord.

    Read answer

    What Does the Bible Say About Wisdom?

    Biblical wisdom is the practical application of God's truth to daily life, beginning with reverence for God and found primarily through Scripture and the Holy Spirit.

    Read answer

    What Does the Bible Mean by 'Fear of the Lord'?

    The fear of the Lord is not terror but reverent awe — a deep respect for God's holiness, power, and authority that is the foundation of true wisdom.

    Read answer

    What Does the Bible Say About Wisdom?

    The Bible teaches that true wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord and is available to anyone who asks God for it in faith.

    Read answer

    What Does the Bible Say About Fear?

    The Bible distinguishes between godly fear (reverence for God) and sinful fear (anxiety and dread), commanding believers to trust God rather than give in to fear.

    Read answer

    Quick Devotional

    For a shorter devotional reflection on related verses:

    Proverbs 1:7 – Meaning & Devotional

    "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction."

    Proverbs 1:7 – Meaning & Devotional

    "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction."

    Related Miracles

    Signs and wonders connected to this passage and its themes:

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    Water Turned into Wine

    Jesus' first public miracle at a wedding in Cana turned six water pots into the best wine.

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    Related Reading

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    Devotional

    Proverbs 1:7 — Meaning & Devotional

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    Commentary

    Psalm 111:10 Commentary

    In-depth study • Wisdom & Reverence

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    Proverbs 9:10 Commentary

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    Job 28:28 Commentary

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    Q&A

    Wisdom vs. Knowledge — What's the Difference?

    Theology & Doctrine

    Word Meaning

    Fear (Yirah) (יִרְאָה (yirah))

    Reverent awe — the trembling wonder and holy respect that constitutes true wisdom.

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