Proverbs 1:5

"let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance—..." — Proverbs 1:5 reveals truths about God's character and His purposes. This passage has been a source of comfort, guidance, and inspiration for believers across generations.

“let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance—”

Proverbs 1:5 (NIV)

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Surrounding verses

Read Proverbs 1:5 with the verses next to it, then open Proverbs 1 in full.

Proverbs 1:4

for giving prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young—

Proverbs 1:6

for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise.

When people use this verse

People often open Proverbs 1:5 when they are looking for Scripture on guidance, learning.

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Proverbs · NIV

John

“The Word Became FleshIn the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”

— John 1:1

What is this verse about?

Proverbs 1:5 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Proverbs. This verse comes from chapter 1, which can be read in full at the Proverbs chapter 1 page. Understanding the surrounding passages helps illuminate the deeper meaning of this verse.

How people apply it

As you reflect on Proverbs 1:5, consider how God's truth applies to your current circumstances. Scripture is living and active — it speaks into every season of life. Let this verse shape your thoughts, decisions, and relationships as you walk in faith.

Related verses

Curated from this site's topic lists — not a keyword scan of the verse text.

Habakkuk 2:19

Woe to him who says to wood, ‘Come to life!’ Or to lifeless stone, ‘Wake up!’ Can it give guidance? It is covered with gold and silver; there is no breath in it.

Proverbs 11:14

For lack of guidance a nation falls, but many advisers make victory sure.

Proverbs 20:18

Make plans by seeking advice; if you wage war, obtain guidance.

Proverbs 24:6

for waging war you need guidance, and for victory many advisers.

1 Chronicles 10:13

Saul died because he was unfaithful to the Lord; he did not keep the word of the Lord and even consulted a medium for guidance,

2 Timothy 3:7

always learning but never able to acknowledge the truth.

Isaiah 44:25

who foils the signs of false prophets and makes fools of diviners, who overthrows the learning of the wise and turns it into nonsense,

John 7:15

The Jews were amazed and asked, “How did this man get such learning without having studied?”

A short prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the truth revealed in Proverbs 1:5. Open my heart to receive Your Word and transform my life. Help me apply this Scripture faithfully and share its hope with others. In Jesus' name, Amen.