He who acquires wisdom loves himself;
Acquiring wisdom is a central theme in the book of Proverbs, emphasizing the importance of seeking knowledge and understanding. In the ancient Near Eastern context, wisdom was highly valued and often associated with skill in living, moral discernment, and the ability to make sound decisions. The phrase suggests that pursuing wisdom is an act of self-love, as it leads to a better life and aligns with God's will. This aligns with the biblical principle that true wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 9:10). The idea of loving oneself through wisdom can be connected to Jesus' teaching in Matthew 22:39, where loving one's neighbor as oneself implies a healthy self-regard rooted in God's truth.

one who safeguards understanding will find success.
Safeguarding understanding implies not only acquiring knowledge but also preserving and applying it wisely. In the biblical context, understanding is more than intellectual comprehension; it involves insight and discernment that guide one's actions. The promise of success for those who protect understanding reflects the biblical principle that God's wisdom leads to prosperity and well-being (Joshua 1:8). This success is not merely material but encompasses spiritual and relational prosperity. The concept of safeguarding understanding can be seen in the life of Jesus, who embodied perfect wisdom and understanding, leading to the ultimate success of fulfilling God's redemptive plan (Colossians 2:3).

1. Solomon
Traditionally attributed as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. His reign is often associated with peace and prosperity in Israel.

2. Israel
The nation to which Solomon belonged and over which he reigned. The cultural and religious context of Israel during Solomon's time is crucial for understanding the Proverbs.

3. Wisdom Literature
Proverbs is part of the wisdom literature in the Bible, which includes books like Job and Ecclesiastes. These texts focus on practical and philosophical insights into life and godliness.The Value of Wisdom
Wisdom is portrayed as a treasure that benefits the individual who seeks it. In a conservative Christian perspective, this wisdom is rooted in the fear of the Lord and adherence to His commandments.

Self-Care through Wisdom
Loving one's own soul involves making choices that lead to spiritual and personal well-being. This includes seeking wisdom and understanding as foundational to a successful life.

Understanding Leads to Success
The Hebrew word for "understanding" (binah) implies discernment and insight. Keeping understanding means applying this discernment in daily life, which leads to success as defined by God's standards.

Practical Application of Wisdom
Wisdom should be actively pursued and applied in all areas of life, including relationships, work, and spiritual growth. This involves daily decisions that align with biblical principles.

The Role of Scripture in Gaining Wisdom
Regular engagement with Scripture is essential for gaining wisdom and understanding. The Bible provides the foundation and guidance needed to navigate life's challenges successfully.(8) He that getteth wisdom.--Literally, heart. For that "wisdom," or "knowledge," that begins with the "fear of the Lord" (see above on Proverbs 1:7), and ends with loving Him, is not a matter of intellect only, but of the heart also--i.e., the will and affections.

Verse 8. - He that getteth wisdom loveth his own soul. "Wisdom" is, in the Hebrew, leb. "heart;" it is a matter, not of intellect only. but of will and affections (see on Proverbs 15:32). Septuagint, ἀγαπᾷ ἑαυτόν, "loveth himself." The contrary, "hateth his own soul," occurs in Proverbs 29:24. By striving to obtain wisdom a man shows that he has regard for the welfare of his soul and body. Hence St. Thomas Aquinas ('Sum. Theol.,' 1:2, qu. 25, art. 7, quoted by Corn. a Lapide) takes occasion to demonstrate that only good men are really lovers of themselves, while evil men are practically self-haters, proving his position by a reference to Arislotle's numeration of the characteristics of friendship, which the former exhibit, and none of which the latter can possess ('Eth. Nic.,' 9:4). He that keepeth understanding shall find good (Proverbs 16:20). A man must not only strive hard and use all available means to get wisdom and prudence, he must guard them like a precious treasure, not lose them for want of care or let them lie useless; and then he will find that they bring with themselves innumerable benefits.

Parallel Commentaries ...


He who acquires
קֹֽנֶה־ (qō·neh-)
Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 7069: To erect, create, to procure, by purchase, to own

wisdom
לֵּ֭ב (lêḇ)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 3820: The heart, the feelings, the will, the intellect, centre

loves
אֹהֵ֣ב (’ō·hêḇ)
Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 157: To have affection f

himself;
נַפְשׁ֑וֹ (nap̄·šōw)
Noun - feminine singular construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 5315: A soul, living being, life, self, person, desire, passion, appetite, emotion

one who safeguards
שֹׁמֵ֥ר (šō·mêr)
Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 8104: To hedge about, guard, to protect, attend to

understanding
תְּ֝בוּנָ֗ה (tə·ḇū·nāh)
Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 8394: Intelligence, an argument, caprice

will find
לִמְצֹא־ (lim·ṣō-)
Preposition-l | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct
Strong's 4672: To come forth to, appear, exist, to attain, find, acquire, to occur, meet, be present

success.
טֽוֹב׃ (ṭō·wḇ)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 2896: Pleasant, agreeable, good


Proverbs 19:8 NIV
Proverbs 19:8 NLT
Proverbs 19:8 ESV
Proverbs 19:8 NASB
Proverbs 19:8 KJV

Proverbs 19:8 BibleApps.com
Proverbs 19:8 Biblia Paralela
Proverbs 19:8 Chinese Bible
Proverbs 19:8 French Bible
Proverbs 19:8 Catholic Bible

OT Poetry: Proverbs 19:8 He who gets wisdom loves his own (Prov. Pro Pr)