Proverbs 16:16 akjv — How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!

American King James Version

" How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver! "

— Proverbs 16:16, American King James Version

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Proverbs 16:16 in Other Translations

7 versions All translations

Proverbs 16 — Context

13

Righteous lips are the delight of kings; and they love him that speaks right.

14

The wrath of a king is as messengers of death: but a wise man will pacify it.

15

In the light of the king’s countenance is life; and his favor is as a cloud of the latter rain.

16

How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!

17

The highway of the upright is to depart from evil: he that keeps his way preserves his soul.

18

Pride goes before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.

19

Better it is to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud.

Proverbs 16:16 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Proverbs 16:16 say?
Proverbs 16:16 in the American King James Version reads: “ How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver! ”
Where is Proverbs 16:16 in the Bible?
Proverbs 16:16 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Proverbs, chapter 16, verse 16.
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 16:16.
What translation should I read Proverbs 16:16 in?
Proverbs 16:16 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 16:16?
Proverbs 16:16 reads (AKJV): “ How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver! ” 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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