Proverbs 3:15
What does Proverbs 3:15 mean?
A plain-English look at Proverbs 3:15 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Proverbs 3:15 means
Continuing the exaltation of wisdom, this verse states that wisdom surpasses even the rarest and most beautiful gems, such as rubies, and is utterly incomparable to anything else one might desire. This hyperbolic language emphasizes wisdom's singular and supreme value. It suggests that all other aspirations, possessions, or achievements pale in comparison to the profound worth and benefits that true wisdom brings to one's life.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000She is more precious than rubies: And none of the things thou canst desire are to be compared unto her.
KJV
King James Version · 1611She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901She is more precious than rubies: And none of the things thou canst desire are to be compared unto her.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949She is of more value than jewels, and nothing for which you may have a desire is fair in comparison with her.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862Precious she <FI>is<Fi> above rubies, And all thy pleasures are not comparable to her.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752She is more precious than all riches: and all the things that are desired, are not to be compared to her.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890She is more precious than rubies; and all the things thou canst desire are not equal unto her.
Context
This verse intensifies the praise of wisdom by further comparing it to highly esteemed treasures, specifically rubies, and generalizes its superiority over *all* other desires. It builds directly upon verse 14's comparison to silver and gold, extending the argument for wisdom's supreme value. This sustained glorification serves to motivate the reader to pursue wisdom above any other earthly pursuit, setting up the subsequent verses that detail wisdom's many gifts.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Romans 8:18
For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed to us-ward.
- Proverbs 8:11
For wisdom is better than rubies; And all the things that may be desired are not to be compared unto it.
- Psalms 73:25
Whom have I in heavenbut thee? And there is none upon earth that I desire besides thee.
- Proverbs 20:15
There is gold, and abundance of rubies; But the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.
- Matthew 13:44
The kingdom of heaven is like unto a treasure hidden in the field; which a man found, and hid; and in his joy he goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.
- Job 28:18
No mention shall be made of coral or of crystal: Yea, the price of wisdom is above rubies.
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