Proverbs 20:5 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 20:5 mean?

Proverbs 20:5 says that wise advice or intentions deep within a person are like deep water—hard to see or reach—but someone with understanding knows how to bring those hidden thoughts or plans out into the open. The verse highlights the value of insight in uncovering what is not immediately obvious in people’s hearts.

In Proverbs, King Solomon is sharing practical wisdom with his audience, likely young men or anyone seeking to live wisely. This proverb uses the image of deep water to describe how people often keep their true thoughts or plans hidden, and it praises the skill of a discerning person who can gently draw out those deeper motives or ideas through careful listening or questioning.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 20:5

• "Counsel" (עֵצָה, etsah) means advice, purpose, or guidance. The verse suggests that people often have valuable or important counsel inside them, but it is not always visible on the surface.
• "Deep" (עָמֹק, amok) describes something hard to reach or understand, like a deep well. This word emphasizes that a person’s real intentions or wisdom are not always easy to access.
• "Understanding" (תְּבוּנָה, tevunah) refers to discernment or insight. The verse highlights that it takes more than just curiosity—it takes real wisdom and perception to draw out what is hidden in someone’s heart.

Why Proverbs 20:5 matters

• Proverbs 20:5 helps clear up the idea that people’s intentions or wisdom are always obvious; it shows that understanding others often requires patience and insight.
• The verse emphasizes the importance of being a person who can listen well and ask the right questions, not just someone who speaks quickly or assumes.
• Proverbs 20:5 fits into the larger theme of Proverbs, which values wisdom not just for oneself, but also in relationships and understanding others.