KJV ORIGINAL
So shall the knowledge of wisdom be unto thy soul: when thou hast found it, then there shall be a reward, and thy expectation shall not be cut off.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
In the same way, wisdom will be good for your soul: when you find it, you will be rewarded, and your hope will not be disappointed.
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
The writer is saying that wisdom brings lasting benefits to your inner life and will reward you with hope that won't let you down.
📚 Historical Context
This verse is part of Solomon's collection of wise sayings in Proverbs, written around 950 BC for teaching practical life skills. In ancient Israel, wisdom wasn't just intellectual knowledge but included moral understanding and skill in living well. The Hebrew concept of 'soul' (nephesh) referred to one's entire inner life and being, not just a spiritual component.
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