Perceiving the Words of Understanding

 Perceiving the Words of Understanding

Proverbs 1:2-4, “To know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding; To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity; To give subtlety to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion.”

            There are a number of things that make it possible for the Christian musician “to perceive the words of understanding” mentioned by Solomon.  As a young man or woman the musician needs to acquire knowledge.  There are many institutions of higher learning where a young musician can acquire musical knowledge.  If a Christian youth desires to have his or her voice to be heard, that person must learn how to read, write and perform music.  Solomon declared that one must “know instruction”.  This is the prerequisite to having wisdom.  In order to have wisdom a musician must be willing to receive instruction. 

            Things to be learned are subtlety, justice, judgment, and equity all these are a must in order for the “young man” to be musically wise.  If there ever was a time when Christian musicians need to acquire the long list of attributes listed above, it is in this century.  The premium is being placed on talent rather than the thorough knowledge that these skills and qualities bring to the place of worship. 

            The word biyn (995) translated perceive in the second verse AV means to separate mentally.  If the young musician is going to make in this perverse world, he or she must be able to be able to perceive the words of understanding  (biynah 998).  These two Hebrew words have very close affinity  I believe a good commentary on their meaning here is found in  Ephesians 5:6, “Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.”