Devine Scripture

Proverbs 3:14

What does Proverbs 3:14 mean?

A plain-English look at Proverbs 3:14 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Proverbs 3:14 means

This verse unequivocally elevates the value of wisdom above all material wealth. It asserts that the acquisition of wisdom is far more profitable and superior to obtaining 'silver' or 'fine gold'—the most highly prized treasures of the ancient world. The true benefit of wisdom lies not in monetary gain, but in its ability to enrich life in more profound and lasting ways, providing genuine prosperity that money cannot buy.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

For the gaining of it is better than the gaining of silver, And the profit thereof than fine gold.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

For the gaining of it is better than the gaining of silver, And the profit thereof than fine gold.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

For trading in it is better than trading in silver, and its profit greater than bright gold.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

For better <FI>is<Fi> her merchandise Than the merchandise of silver, And than gold--her increase.

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

The purchasing thereof is better than the merchandise of silver, and her fruit than the chief and purest gold:

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

For the gain thereof is better than the gain of silver, and her revenue than fine gold.

Context

Following the declaration of happiness for those who find wisdom in verse 13, this verse immediately elaborates on *why* wisdom is so valuable. It does so by making a direct comparison to material riches, establishing wisdom's incomparable worth. This comparison prepares the reader for more detailed descriptions of wisdom's benefits and its superiority over all other desirable things, reinforcing its prominence as the chapter's central theme.

v.13Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, And the man that getteth understanding.

v.14This passage

v.15She is more precious than rubies: And none of the things thou canst desire are to be compared unto her.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Proverbs 8:10

    Receive my instruction, and not silver; And knowledge rather than choice gold.

  • Proverbs 2:4

    If thou seek her as silver, And search for her as for hid treasures:

  • Philippians 3:8

    Yea verily, and I count all things to be loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but refuse, that I may gain Christ,

  • Proverbs 8:19

    My fruit is better than gold, yea, than fine gold; And my revenue than choice silver.

  • 2 Chronicles 1:11

    And God said to Solomon, Because this was in thy heart, and thou hast not asked riches, wealth, or honor, nor the life of them that hate thee, neither yet hast asked long life; but hast asked wisdom and knowledge for thyself, that thou mayest judge my people, over whom I have made thee king:

  • Psalms 119:72

    The law of thy mouth is better unto me Than thousands of gold and silver. י YODH.

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