Translations
Modern
O simple ones, learn to be shrewd; O fools, gain understanding.
Traditional
O ye simple, understand wisdom: and, ye fools, be ye of an understanding heart.
Literal
Discern prudence, O simple ones; and you foolish ones, understand the heart.
Latin
Intelligite, parvuli, astutiam, et insipientes, animadvertite.
Interlinear
Hebrew
English
O simple ones, learn to be shrewd; O fools, gain understanding.
Notes
The first part of Proverbs reaches a peak when the son meets two women. Both invite the young man, and the reader, into a close relationship. The young man and the reader must choose between:
The woman named Wisdom, who represents God's true wisdom (Proverbs 8:1–9:6)
The woman named Folly (9:13–18), who represents worldly wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:18–2:16)
Both women's houses are on "the heights of the city" (Proverbs 9:3, 14), which suggests ancient temples. The choice is between the true God and false gods.
Glossary
Topics
Fools: Exhorted to Seek Wisdom Ignorance: General Scriptures Concerning Jesus, the Christ: Omniscience of Salvation: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Wisdom: Spiritual: Unclassified Scriptures Relating to