1:2 wisdom. The great theme of Proverbs is to know the true “wisdom.” The word itself occurs more in Proverbs than in any other book of the Bible. The same is true of the words “instruction” and “understanding” (Proverbs 1:2), “knowledge” and “discretion” (Proverbs 1:4), “learning” and “wise counsels” (Proverbs 1:5).

1:3 the instruction of wisdom. Seven mental attributes are mentioned in Proverbs 1:3-5. The Biblical meaning of these can be summarized roughly as follows:

(1) “Knowledge” (synonymous with “science”): awareness of facts.

(2) “Understanding:” comprehension of meaning and inter-relationships of facts.

(3) “Instruction” (same as “correction”): reception of knowledge and understanding.

(4) “Discretion” (i.e., “thought”): ingenuity in planning use of facts.

(5) “Learning:” absorption and retention of facts and their use.

(6) “Wisdom:” character; ability to use one’s knowledge and understanding effectively in one’s own life and in dealing with others.

(7) “Wise counsels:” ability to convey wisdom to others; good advice.