Proverbs 1:7 nasb — The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; Fools despise wisdom and instruction.

NASB

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; Fools despise wisdom and instruction."

— Proverbs 1:7, NASB

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Proverbs 1 — Context

4

To give prudence to the naive, To the youth knowledge and discretion,

5

A wise man will hear and increase in learning, And a man of understanding will acquire wise counsel,

6

To understand a proverb and a figure, The words of the wise and their riddles.

7

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; Fools despise wisdom and instruction.

8

Hear, my son, your father's instruction And do not forsake your mother's teaching;

9

Indeed, they are a graceful wreath to your head And ornaments about your neck.

10

My son, if sinners entice you, Do not consent.

Proverbs 1:7 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Proverbs 1:7 say?
Proverbs 1:7 in the NASB reads: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; Fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
Where is Proverbs 1:7 in the Bible?
Proverbs 1:7 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Proverbs, chapter 1, verse 7.
Who wrote Proverbs?
Proverbs is traditionally attributed to Solomon (primarily), with sections by Agur and Lemuel. It was written c. 970–700 BC.
What is the book of Proverbs about?
Proverbs is practical wisdom for everyday life — short, vivid sayings on speech, work, money, friendship, sex, parenting, and the fear of the LORD. It teaches that wisdom is not mere cleverness but a way of walking with God in a complicated world.
What are the major themes of Proverbs?
Proverbs explores themes including Wisdom, Folly, Fear of the LORD, Discipline, Speech, Diligence. These themes shape the meaning and context of Proverbs 1:7.
What translation should I read Proverbs 1:7 in?
Proverbs 1:7 is available on GodsGoodBook in the King James Version (KJV), American Standard Version (ASV), World English Bible (WEB), NET Bible, Young's Literal Translation, Darby Bible, Douay-Rheims Bible, and the Bible in Basic English. Each translation reflects different translation philosophies — use the translation picker on this page to compare them, or browse our full translations directory.
How can I memorize Proverbs 1:7?
Proverbs 1:7 reads (NASB): “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; Fools despise wisdom and instruction.” Read it aloud, break it into short phrases, repeat each phrase three times before adding the next, then put the phrases together. Reading it in multiple translations (above) often helps the meaning settle.
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