How is knowledge of the Holy One understanding (Proverbs 9:10)?

In Proverbs 9:10, Solomon writes of wisdom and understanding: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” Previously, in Proverbs 1:7, Solomon states, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” These two passages bracket the theme of the book of Proverbs.

These passages teach us that the foundation of true wisdom is rooted in fear of the Lord—a deep reverence and respect for Him. This reverence is not a paralyzing dread but a profound awareness and awe of the Creator’s power, greatness, beauty, justice, and love. A healthy fear of the Lord, a fear that recognizes God for who He is, results in wholehearted devotion to serving and obeying Him.

Understanding comes from the knowledge of the Holy One (see Psalm 147:5). As we see in Proverbs 1:7, this knowledge of the Holy One and resulting understanding are only apprehended by those who fear the Lord. Respecting God for who He is and all He has done is the indispensable, foundational starting point for understanding.

Breaking down Proverbs 9:10 a bit, the word translated as “knowledge” means “discernment” in the original Hebrew, and “understanding” refers to “insight.” The “Holy One” is the God of Israel. This name focuses on His moral uprightness. In the original language, the term has a plural ending, emphasizing the fullness of God’s holiness.

Thus, having the knowledge of the Holy One implies having a relationship with the set-apart, consecrated, Holy God of Israel. This relationship goes beyond mere acknowledgment of His divine existence. It is not simply head knowledge. It involves an intimate connection and continuous experiential learning about God’s nature, will, and ways. Such knowledge leads to discernment, insight, and a deeper comprehension of life’s purpose and the divine plan (Hosea 14:9).

God is the source of all things (Proverbs 2:6). If we want to have wisdom, knowledge, and understanding, we must get to know Him intimately through His Word (Job 12:13; Psalm 119:130; Proverbs 8:8–9; Philippians 1:9–10). We must also take Him seriously. The better we know God and His holy character, the more attuned we will become to His wisdom, the more we will be able to distinguish between right and wrong, and the better equipped we will be to make decisions in life.

Knowledge of the Holy One enriches our perspective, allowing us to understand life from God’s vantage point. It aligns our values with godly, biblical principles. Knowledge of the Holy One fosters a sense of peace and a solid direction for navigating life’s often complex and winding roads (Psalm 119:105; Proverbs 3:21–23; 15:21).

Therefore, to truly gain understanding and sound judgment, we must seek to know the Holy One deeply, embracing the wisdom that flows from this sacred covenant relationship. We must “seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give [us] everything [we] need” (Matthew 6:33, NLT; see also Matthew 5:6).

The Bible says that Jesus is “the wisdom of God” (1 Corinthians 1:24, 30). In Him, there is no sin or moral failure (2 Corinthians 5:21; Hebrews 4:15). Christ embodies spiritual truth and understanding—He is the truth (John 14:6). John writes, “We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true. And we are in him who is true by being in his Son Jesus Christ” (1 John 5:20).

How is knowledge of the Holy One understanding? It is only in knowing God through a relationship with Jesus Christ that we can be truly discerning. The Lord opens our eyes to spiritual truth (Ephesians 1:9, 18; 3:4). We gain a God-given perception that results in sound judgment and correct decision-making. Knowledge of the Holy One enables us to utilize that insight to conduct our lives aright. All of this extends from revering the Lord and coming to know Him through a relationship with Jesus.

Receiving Christ as Lord and Savior grants us knowledge of the Holy One and, therefore, true understanding. In Him are “hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Colossians 2:3).