Proverbs 1:4 (BSB)

To impart prudence to the simple and knowledge and discretion to the young,

From Proverbs 1. Also in the ESV.

Commentary on Proverbs 1:4

• Matthew Henry (Presbyterian), Matthew Henry's Complete Commentary on Proverbs 1:1-6: We have here an introduction to this book, which some think was prefixed by the collector and publisher, as Ezra; but it is rather supposed to have been penned by Solomon himself, who, in the beginning of his book, proposes his end in writing it, that he might keep to his business, and closely pursue that end. We are here told, I. Who wrote these wise sayings, Pro 1:1.
• John Gill (Reformed Baptist), Exposition of the Old and New Testaments on Proverbs 1:4: To give subtlety to the simple,.... Men of mean abilities, weak capacities, shallow understandings, incautious, credulous, and easily imposed upon: these, by attending to what is herein contained, may arrive to a serpentine subtlety; though they are simple and harmless as doves, may become as wise as serpents; may attain to an exquisite knowledge of divine things and know even more than the wise and...
• Jamieson-Fausset-Brown (Reformed), Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible on Proverbs 1:4: simple--one easily led to good or evil; so the parallel. young man--one inexperienced. subtilty--or prudence (Pro 3:21; Pro 5:21). discretion--literally, "device," both qualities, either good or bad, according to their use. Here good, as they imply wariness by which to escape evil and find good.
• Geneva Bible Notes (Reformed), Geneva Bible Study Notes on Proverbs 1:4: To give subtilty to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion. (e) To such as have no discretion to rule themselves.