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What does the Bible say about seeking knowledge?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible commends the humble pursuit of true knowledge, especially the wisdom that begins with reverent fear of the Lord and leads to faithful obedience. James 1:5 invites believers to ask God for wisdom confidently, trusting his generous grace. Proverbs teaches that the discerning seek knowledge, yet warns that zeal without understanding can mislead (Proverbs 15:14; 19:2). All sound wisdom ultimately comes from the Lord, whose Word gives understanding and guards the upright (Proverbs 2:6; 9:10). Jesus calls us to ask, seek, and knock in dependence on our heavenly Father (Matthew 7:7). Knowledge divorced from God is insufficient, but knowing him preserves his people and equips them to live wisely (Hosea 4:6).

Top passages, ranked by readers

Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible

  • James 1:5

    But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach; and it will be given to him.

  • Proverbs 15:14

    The heart of one who has understanding seeks knowledge, But the mouths of fools feed on folly.

  • Matthew 7:7

    "Ask, and it will be given you. Seek, and you will find. Knock, and it will be opened for you.

  • Proverbs 18:15-24

    [15] The heart of the discerning gets knowledge. The ear of the wise seeks knowledge. [16] A man's gift makes room for him, And brings him before great men. [17] He who pleads his cause first seems right; Until another comes and questions him. [18] The lot settles disputes, And keeps strong ones apart. [19] A brother offended is more difficult than a fortified city; And disputes are like the bars of a castle. [20] A man's stomach is filled with the fruit of his mouth. With the harvest of his lips he is satisfied. [21] Death and life are in the power of the tongue; Those who love it will eat its fruit. [22] Whoever finds a wife finds a good thing, And obtains favor of Yahweh. [23] The poor plead for mercy, But the rich answer harshly. [24] A man of many companions may be ruined, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

  • Proverbs 2:6

    For Yahweh gives wisdom. Out of his mouth comes knowledge and understanding.

  • Proverbs 1:7

    The fear of Yahweh is the beginning of knowledge; But the foolish despise wisdom and instruction.

  • Hosea 4:6

    My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I will also reject you, That you may be no priest to me. Because you have your God's law, I will also forget your children.

  • Proverbs 9:10

    The fear of Yahweh is the beginning of wisdom. The knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.

  • Proverbs 19:2

    It isn't good to have zeal without knowledge; Nor being hasty with one's feet and missing the way.

  • Proverbs 24:5

    A wise man has great power; And a knowledgeable man increases strength;

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