Proverbs 15:33
New International Version
Wisdom’s instruction is to fear the LORD, and humility comes before honor.

New Living Translation
Fear of the LORD teaches wisdom; humility precedes honor.

English Standard Version
The fear of the LORD is instruction in wisdom, and humility comes before honor.

Berean Standard Bible
The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom, and humility comes before honor.

King James Bible
The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.

New King James Version
The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom, And before honor is humility.

New American Standard Bible
The fear of the LORD is the instruction for wisdom, And before honor comes humility.

NASB 1995
The fear of the LORD is the instruction for wisdom, And before honor comes humility.

NASB 1977
The fear of the LORD is the instruction for wisdom, And before honor comes humility.

Legacy Standard Bible
The fear of Yahweh is the discipline leading to wisdom, And before glory comes humility.

Amplified Bible
The [reverent] fear of the LORD [that is, worshiping Him and regarding Him as truly awesome] is the instruction for wisdom [its starting point and its essence]; And before honor comes humility.

Christian Standard Bible
The fear of the LORD is what wisdom teaches, and humility comes before honor.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
The fear of the LORD is what wisdom teaches, and humility comes before honor.

American Standard Version
The fear of Jehovah is the instruction of wisdom; And before honor goeth humility.

Contemporary English Version
Showing respect to the LORD will make you wise, and being humble will bring honor to you.

English Revised Version
The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour goeth humility.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
The fear of the LORD is discipline [leading to] wisdom, and humility comes before honor.

Good News Translation
Reverence for the LORD is an education in itself. You must be humble before you can ever receive honors.

International Standard Version
The fear of the LORD teaches wisdom, and humility precedes honor.

NET Bible
The fear of the LORD provides wise instruction, and before honor comes humility.

New Heart English Bible
The fear of the LORD teaches wisdom. Before honor is humility.

Webster's Bible Translation
The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom: and before honor is humility.
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom, and humility comes before honor.

World English Bible
The fear of Yahweh teaches wisdom. Before honor is humility.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
The fear of YHWH [is] the instruction of wisdom, "" And humility [is] before honor!

Young's Literal Translation
The fear of Jehovah is the instruction of wisdom, And before honour is humility!

Smith's Literal Translation
The fear of Jehovah the instruction of wisdom; and before honor humility.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
The fear of the Lord is the lesson of wisdom: and humility goeth before glory.

Catholic Public Domain Version
The fear of the Lord is the discipline of wisdom. And humility precedes glory.

New American Bible
The fear of the LORD is training for wisdom, and humility goes before honors.

New Revised Standard Version
The fear of the LORD is instruction in wisdom, and humility goes before honor.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
Reverence for the LORD is the instruction of life; and the glory of the meek goes before him.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
The awe of LORD JEHOVAH is the instruction of life and the glory of the meek one goes before him.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; And before honour goeth humility.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
The fear of the Lord is instruction and wisdom; and the highest honour will correspond therewith.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
A Gentle Answer Turns Away Wrath
32He who ignores discipline despises himself, but whoever heeds correction gains understanding. 33The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom, and humility comes before honor.

Cross References
James 4:6
But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”

1 Peter 5:5
Young men, in the same way, submit yourselves to your elders. And all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”

Proverbs 1:7
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.

Proverbs 9:10
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.

Psalm 111:10
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow His precepts gain rich understanding. His praise endures forever!

Isaiah 57:15
For thus says the One who is high and lifted up, who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: “I dwell in a high and holy place, and with the oppressed and humble in spirit, to restore the spirit of the lowly and revive the heart of the contrite.

Matthew 23:12
For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.

Luke 14:11
For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”

Philippians 2:3
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves.

Proverbs 22:4
The rewards of humility and the fear of the LORD are wealth and honor and life.

Job 28:28
And He said to man, ‘Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom, and to turn away from evil is understanding.’”

Micah 6:8
He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?

Romans 12:16
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but associate with the lowly. Do not be conceited.

Ephesians 4:2
with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love,

Colossians 3:12
Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.


Treasury of Scripture

The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honor is humility.

fear

Proverbs 1:7
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Proverbs 8:13
The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.

Job 28:28
And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding.

and

Proverbs 18:12
Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility.

Proverbs 25:6,7
Put not forth thyself in the presence of the king, and stand not in the place of great men: …

Proverbs 29:23
A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit.

Jump to Previous
Discipline Fear Goes Honor Honour Humility Instruction Low Oneself Opinion Teaches Teaching Wisdom
Jump to Next
Discipline Fear Goes Honor Honour Humility Instruction Low Oneself Opinion Teaches Teaching Wisdom
Proverbs 15
1. A gentle answer turns away wrath














The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom
The concept of "the fear of the LORD" is foundational in biblical teaching, emphasizing a deep reverence and awe for God. This fear is not about being afraid but about recognizing God's holiness, power, and authority. In the Hebrew context, "fear" (yirah) often implies respect and submission to God's will. The phrase "instruction of wisdom" suggests that true wisdom begins with understanding and respecting God's nature and commands. This aligns with Proverbs 9:10, which states, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom." Wisdom in the biblical sense is not merely intellectual knowledge but a practical application of God's truth in daily life. The instruction here implies a learning process, where one grows in understanding through a relationship with God.

and humility comes before honor
Humility is a recurring theme in Scripture, often linked with wisdom and righteousness. In the ancient Near Eastern culture, humility was not always valued, as honor and status were often pursued. However, the biblical perspective turns this on its head, teaching that true honor comes from God and is often preceded by humility. This principle is echoed in James 4:10, "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up." Humility involves recognizing one's limitations and dependence on God, contrasting with pride, which leads to downfall (Proverbs 16:18). Jesus Christ exemplified ultimate humility, as seen in Philippians 2:5-11, where He humbled Himself even to the point of death on a cross, and was subsequently exalted by God. This phrase teaches that in God's economy, lowering oneself in humility is the path to being lifted up in honor.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Solomon
Traditionally regarded as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was known for his wisdom, which he received from God. His writings often focus on the practical application of wisdom in daily life.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing His eternal existence and faithfulness to His people. The "fear of the LORD" is a central theme in Proverbs, representing reverence and awe towards God.

3. Wisdom
In the context of Proverbs, wisdom is personified and is seen as a divine attribute that guides righteous living. It is not merely intellectual knowledge but involves moral and spiritual insight.

4. Humility
A key virtue in biblical teaching, humility is the quality of having a modest view of one's importance. It is often linked with the fear of the LORD and is seen as a precursor to receiving honor.

5. Honor
In biblical terms, honor is the recognition and respect given to someone due to their character and actions. It is often portrayed as a reward for living a life of wisdom and humility.
Teaching Points
The Foundation of Wisdom
The fear of the LORD is not just an emotion but a foundational principle for acquiring true wisdom. It involves a deep respect and reverence for God's authority and commandments.

The Role of Humility
Humility is essential for receiving wisdom and honor. It requires recognizing our limitations and dependence on God, which opens us to His guidance and blessings.

The Path to Honor
True honor comes from God and is often the result of a life lived in humility and obedience. It is not something to be pursued for its own sake but is a byproduct of a righteous life.

Practical Reverence
Fearing the LORD involves practical steps such as studying His Word, prayer, and living in accordance with His will. It is an active, ongoing process.

The Interconnectedness of Virtues
Wisdom, humility, and honor are interconnected virtues. Cultivating one often leads to the development of the others, creating a holistic approach to godly living.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Proverbs 15:33?

2. How does Proverbs 15:33 define the relationship between humility and wisdom?

3. What role does "fear of the LORD" play in gaining wisdom?

4. How can we practice humility daily according to Proverbs 15:33?

5. Which other scriptures emphasize the importance of humility before honor?

6. How can "fear of the LORD" guide our decision-making processes today?

7. What does Proverbs 15:33 teach about the relationship between wisdom and humility?

8. How does Proverbs 15:33 define the fear of the LORD?

9. Why is humility emphasized before honor in Proverbs 15:33?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 15?

11. How can humility lead to wisdom and honor?

12. What is the significance of the Prayer of Jabez?

13. Proverbs 15:33: How is fearing the Lord compatible with contemporary views on rational inquiry and evidence-based wisdom?

14. Proverbs 22:4: If humility and fear of the Lord lead to riches and honor, why do many humble believers remain in poverty or face hardship?
What Does Proverbs 15:33 Mean
The fear of the LORD

- “The fear of the LORD” centers on a reverent awe that shapes every choice (Proverbs 1:7; 9:10).

- It is not terror that drives us away; it is worshipful respect that draws us near (Exodus 20:20).

- Such fear guards the heart against self‐reliance and sin (Proverbs 16:6).


Is the instruction of wisdom

- The verse states: “The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom” (Proverbs 15:33a).

• Fear becomes the classroom where God Himself teaches (Psalm 25:12).

• Wisdom is not merely learned facts; it is a God‐given skill for living (Proverbs 2:6; James 1:5).

- Every wise lesson begins with submission to God’s authority, ensuring that knowledge turns into righteous action (Proverbs 3:5-7).


And humility comes before honor

- True fear of the LORD cultivates humility, the soil in which His honor grows (Proverbs 22:4; Micah 6:8).

- Scripture consistently pairs lowering ourselves with God raising us up (James 4:6,10; 1 Peter 5:6).

- Jesus modeled the pattern perfectly: “He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to death… therefore God exalted Him” (Philippians 2:8-9).


Living it out

- Start each day acknowledging God’s rightful place as Lord (Psalm 111:10).

- Seek His wisdom through Scripture before making decisions (Psalm 119:105).

- Embrace humble service, trusting God to grant any honor in His timing (Luke 14:11).


summary

Proverbs 15:33 links three unbreakable realities: reverent fear of the LORD leads to God’s wisdom; that reverent wisdom nurtures humility; and genuine humility positions us for the honor God alone bestows. Choosing this path places us under His instruction today and into eternal reward tomorrow.

(33) The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom.--Or, a discipline which leads to wisdom. (Comp. Proverbs 1:7.)

Before honour is humility.--Humility leads to it. (Comp. Luke 1:52.)

Verse 33. - The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom; that which leads to and gives wisdom (see Proverbs 1:3, 7, etc.; Proverbs 9:10). 'Pirke Aboth,' 3:26, "No wisdom, no fear of God; no fear of God, no wisdom. No knowledge, no discernment; no discernment, no knowledge." Before honour is humility (Proverbs 18:12). A man who fears God must be humble, and as the fear of God leads to wisdom, it may be said that humility leads to the honour and glory of being wise and reckoned among the wise (ver. 31). A man with a lowly opinion of himself will hearken to the teaching of the wise, and scrupulously obey the Law of God, and will be blessed in his ways. For "God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble" (James 4:6; comp. Luke 1:52). The maxim in the second clause has a general application. "He that shall humble himself shall be exalted" (Matthew 23:12; comp. Luke 14:11; James 4:6). It is sanctioned by the example of Christ himself, the Spirit itself testifying beforehand his sufferings that were to precede his glory (1 Peter 1:11; see also Philippians 2:5, etc.). Septuagint, "The fear of the Lord is discipline and wisdom, and the beginning of glory shall answer to it." Another reading adds, "Glory goeth before the humble," which is explained to mean that the humble set before their eyes the reward that awaits their humility, and patiently endure, like Christ, "who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God" (Hebrews 12:2).



Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
The fear
יִרְאַ֣ת (yir·’aṯ)
Noun - feminine singular construct
Strong's 3374: Fear, reverence

of the LORD
יְ֭הוָה (Yah·weh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel

[is] the instruction
מוּסַ֣ר (mū·sar)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 4148: Chastisement, reproof, warning, instruction, restraint

of wisdom,
חָכְמָ֑ה (ḥāḵ·māh)
Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 2451: Wisdom

and humility
עֲנָוָֽה׃ (‘ă·nā·wāh)
Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 6038: Condescension

comes before
וְלִפְנֵ֖י (wə·lip̄·nê)
Conjunctive waw, Preposition-l | Noun - common plural construct
Strong's 6440: The face

honor.
כָב֣וֹד (ḵā·ḇō·wḏ)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 3519: Weight, splendor, copiousness


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