Why should I get understanding above all (Proverbs 4:7)?

Today, many inheritances consist of money and possessions. However, in Proverbs 4:1–9, Solomon passes down wisdom to his son. One of the most crucial lessons he imparts is about acquiring it. He writes, “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding” (Proverbs 4:7). In other words, Solomon urges his son to seek understanding, insight, and discernment at any cost. Make it a top priority. Wisdom’s benefits far surpass wealth, status, and material gain.

Wisdom and understanding are closely linked in Proverbs 4:7, with understanding being a key aspect of wisdom. In the Bible, wisdom is more than knowledge; it involves discernment, moral insight, and application. Proverbs 1:7 states, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.” Proverbs 9:10 expands on this, declaring, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” These statements highlight that true knowledge must be grounded in God’s truth and applied according to His standard of right and wrong. When a person embraces the fear of the Lord as the foundation for life, it shapes his or her decisions, leading to righteousness, blessing, and fulfillment.

The first step to gaining wisdom is actively seeking understanding. A person cannot live according to wisdom he does not possess. Simply acknowledging the value of wisdom without pursuing understanding is empty and inconsistent. It reflects the kind of hypocrisy in which one professes faith but fails to live by it. James warns against this when he says, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says” (James 1:22). Similarly, Jesus rebuked the religious leaders of His day for failing to live according to what they professed (e.g., Matthew 23:13–15).

To fear God means to hold Him in reverential awe, not to be terrified of Him like a child afraid of the dark. It is the kind of fear that overwhelmed Isaiah and Peter when they encountered God’s holiness, making them aware of their own sinfulness (Isaiah 6:5; Luke 5:8). Rather than producing anxiety, godly fear fosters understanding that leads to worship.

Next, Proverbs 4:7 highlights the value of wisdom with the words though it cost all you have. People often pursue temporary and even sinful things, chasing earthly treasures that do not last while neglecting the heavenly treasures that endure. They pour their time and energy into what quickly fades, while ignoring what is truly lasting.

Jesus reinforces this idea in Matthew 13:44–46, illustrating the supreme worth of the kingdom of heaven: “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.”

Solomon was known for the earthly treasures he accumulated—wealth, possessions, and a harem of 1,000 women. Yet in Proverbs 4:7 he teaches that true value is not found in the earthly riches people chase. Rather than seeking material wealth, they should cherish wisdom by gaining true understanding. As the next verses state, “Cherish her, and she will exalt you; embrace her, and she will honor you. She will give you a garland to grace your head and present you with a glorious crown” (Proverbs 4:8–9). Those who cherish wisdom through understanding will receive lasting honor—much more valuable than the fleeting rewards of material wealth.