This verse reminds us that valuing wise speech over material wealth gives us the best return of all.
Solomon teaches in Proverbs 20:15, “There is gold, and an abundance of jewels; But the lips of knowledge are a more precious thing” (v.15). He contrasts material wealth—such as “gold” or “abundance of jewels”—with “the lips of knowledge.” Material possessions can be attractive and alluring, but here the emphasis is that genuine wisdom (expressed through speech marked by understanding) surpasses any earthly treasure. This theme resonates with the broader teachings of Proverbs, which remind us again and again that knowledge and insight guide our steps in righteous paths while mere riches cannot deliver the deeper benefits of a life aligned with God’s design. Elsewhere in Proverbs, the message is clear that no amount of gold or silver can equal the value of living insight and wise instruction, since they direct us toward flourishing in God’s ways. “Whatever gold and silver might allow us to amass, wisdom is better,” as reflected in another passage of this book.
This verse also invites us to consider the practical impact of wise speech. “The lips of knowledge” suggest that when we absorb God’s truth and apply it in daily relationships, our words become precious—far more valuable than external wealth. Knowledge must not remain abstract; it comes alive when we put it into practice to guide, encourage, and build up others. Such wisdom is “pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable,” and bears fruit that benefits not only ourselves but our communities (James 3:17). While material riches can slip through our fingers or get depleted over time, “the lips of knowledge” offer a lasting resource of godly counsel and discernment that endures.
Ultimately, Proverbs 20:15 points to a treasure that can shape both hearts and destinies. We pursue wisdom by humbly seeking understanding through God’s word, then speaking with discernment. In doing so, we discover that what matters most is not the gold we hold in our hands, but the gracious words of insight and truth that flow from the knowledge God grants us.
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Proverbs 20:15 meaning
Solomon teaches in Proverbs 20:15, “There is gold, and an abundance of jewels; But the lips of knowledge are a more precious thing” (v.15). He contrasts material wealth—such as “gold” or “abundance of jewels”—with “the lips of knowledge.” Material possessions can be attractive and alluring, but here the emphasis is that genuine wisdom (expressed through speech marked by understanding) surpasses any earthly treasure. This theme resonates with the broader teachings of Proverbs, which remind us again and again that knowledge and insight guide our steps in righteous paths while mere riches cannot deliver the deeper benefits of a life aligned with God’s design. Elsewhere in Proverbs, the message is clear that no amount of gold or silver can equal the value of living insight and wise instruction, since they direct us toward flourishing in God’s ways. “Whatever gold and silver might allow us to amass, wisdom is better,” as reflected in another passage of this book.
This verse also invites us to consider the practical impact of wise speech. “The lips of knowledge” suggest that when we absorb God’s truth and apply it in daily relationships, our words become precious—far more valuable than external wealth. Knowledge must not remain abstract; it comes alive when we put it into practice to guide, encourage, and build up others. Such wisdom is “pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable,” and bears fruit that benefits not only ourselves but our communities (James 3:17). While material riches can slip through our fingers or get depleted over time, “the lips of knowledge” offer a lasting resource of godly counsel and discernment that endures.
Ultimately, Proverbs 20:15 points to a treasure that can shape both hearts and destinies. We pursue wisdom by humbly seeking understanding through God’s word, then speaking with discernment. In doing so, we discover that what matters most is not the gold we hold in our hands, but the gracious words of insight and truth that flow from the knowledge God grants us.