Proverbs 1:6

Verse 6 continues the list of benefits given to the wise. The wise will be able to understand a proverb and a figure. A “figure” here refers to something that requires interpretation. an enigma or an obscure saying. [1] In other words, this is not surface-level understanding. The Proverbs train the reader to think more deeply. The verse then goes further. The one who reads the Proverbs will also be able to understand the words of the wise and their riddles. This is an interesting point because Scripture often communicates truth in ways that are not immediately obvious.

Christ regularly spoke in parables, and not everyone understood them. He explains that while some hear and understand, others hear but do not perceive.[2] Jesus tells Nicodemus that one must be “born again,” a statement that initially confuses Nicodemus because he takes it only at face value.[3] Jesus often spoke in ways that required reflection. His words carried layers of meaning, and without wisdom, they could seem confusing rather than helpful. Proverbs 1:6 suggests that wisdom prepares a person for this kind of understanding.

[1] Gesenius, Wilhelm, and Samuel Prideaux Tregelles. Gesenius’ Hebrew and Chaldee Lexicon to the Old Testament Scriptures, Logos Bible Software, 2003, p. 477.

[2] Matthew 13:10–13

[3] John 3:3–4