For whoever finds me finds life
This phrase emphasizes the pursuit of wisdom, personified in Proverbs 8 as a woman calling out to humanity. In the biblical context, wisdom is not merely intellectual knowledge but a deep, spiritual understanding that aligns with God's will. The "life" mentioned here is not just physical existence but a rich, fulfilling life that comes from living in accordance with divine principles. This echoes the teachings of Jesus in John 10:10, where He speaks of bringing life abundantly. The pursuit of wisdom is akin to seeking a relationship with God, as true wisdom originates from Him. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, life was seen as a gift from God, and living wisely was a way to honor that gift.

and obtains the favor of the LORD
Obtaining the favor of the LORD implies a state of grace and blessing that comes from living in harmony with God's wisdom. In the Old Testament, God's favor is often associated with prosperity, protection, and success, as seen in the lives of figures like Joseph and David. This favor is not earned through human effort but is a result of aligning oneself with God's purposes. Theologically, this can be connected to the New Testament concept of grace, where believers receive unmerited favor through faith in Christ. The idea of divine favor also ties into the covenant relationship between God and His people, where obedience and faithfulness lead to blessings. This phrase encourages believers to seek wisdom as a means to experience God's favor in their lives.

1. Wisdom (Personified)
In Proverbs 8, wisdom is personified as a woman calling out to humanity, offering guidance and understanding. This personification emphasizes the value and necessity of wisdom in one's life.

2. Solomon (Author)
King Solomon, known for his wisdom, is traditionally credited with writing the book of Proverbs. His insights are drawn from his experiences and divine inspiration.

3. The LORD (God)
The verse highlights the relationship between finding wisdom and obtaining favor from the LORD, underscoring the divine approval that comes with living wisely.The Pursuit of Wisdom
Actively seek wisdom in daily life through prayer, study, and reflection. Wisdom is not passive; it requires intentional pursuit.

Life and Favor
Understand that true life and divine favor are intertwined with wisdom. Living wisely aligns us with God's will and brings His blessings.

Wisdom's Divine Source
Recognize that wisdom ultimately comes from God. Cultivate a relationship with Him to grow in understanding and insight.

Practical Wisdom
Apply wisdom in practical decisions, relationships, and challenges. Wisdom should influence every aspect of life, leading to godly living.

Reflecting Christ
As wisdom is personified in Proverbs, see Christ as the ultimate embodiment of wisdom. Strive to reflect His character in your actions and decisions.(35) Whoso findeth me findeth life.--Comp. 1John 5:12; John 8:51; and above, Proverbs 3:18, where Wisdom is described as a "tree of life."

Verse 35. - For whoso findeth me findeth life. Here is the reason why the man is blessed who attends to the instruction of Wisdom. A similar promise is made at Proverbs 3:16, 18, 22. The truth here enunciated is also spoken or the Word of God, the everlasting Son of the Father. John 1:4, "In him was life; and the life was the light of men;" John 3:36, "He that believeth on the Son hath eternal life;" John 17:3, "This is life eternal, that they should know thee the only true God, and him whom thou didst send, even Jesus Christ" (comp. John 8:51; 1 John 5:12; Ecclus. 4:12). Shall obtain favour of the Lord; Vulgate, hauriet salutem, which happily renders the Hebrew verb (Proverbs 12:2). The grace of God bringeth salvation (Titus 2:11). Septuagint, "For my outgoings (ἔξοδοι) are the outgoings of life, and the will is prepared by the Lord (καὶ ἐτοιμάζεται θέλησις παρὰ Κυρίου)." This latter clause was used by the Fathers, especially in the Pelagian controversy, to prove the necessity of prevenient grace (see St. Augustine, 'Enchiridion,' 2:32; 'De Gratia,' 6:16, 17).

Parallel Commentaries ...


For
כִּ֣י (kî)
Conjunction
Strong's 3588: A relative conjunction

whoever finds
מֹ֭צְאִי (mō·ṣə·’î)
Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular construct | first person common singular
Strong's 4672: To come forth to, appear, exist, to attain, find, acquire, to occur, meet, be present

me finds
מָצָ֣א‪‬ (mā·ṣā)
Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 4672: To come forth to, appear, exist, to attain, find, acquire, to occur, meet, be present

life
חַיִּ֑ים (ḥay·yîm)
Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 2416: Alive, raw, fresh, strong, life

and obtains
וַיָּ֥פֶק (way·yā·p̄eq)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Hifil - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 6329: To issue, furnish, to secure, to succeed

the favor
רָ֝צ֗וֹן (rā·ṣō·wn)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 7522: Goodwill, favor, acceptance, will

of the LORD;
מֵיְהוָֽה׃ (Yah·weh)
Preposition-m | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel


Proverbs 8:35 NIV
Proverbs 8:35 NLT
Proverbs 8:35 ESV
Proverbs 8:35 NASB
Proverbs 8:35 KJV

Proverbs 8:35 BibleApps.com
Proverbs 8:35 Biblia Paralela
Proverbs 8:35 Chinese Bible
Proverbs 8:35 French Bible
Proverbs 8:35 Catholic Bible

OT Poetry: Proverbs 8:35 For whoever finds me finds life (Prov. Pro Pr)