There is gold, and a multitude of rubies: but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.
There is gold and many rubies, but words spoken with wisdom are more valuable than precious gems.
This verse is saying that wise words are worth more than the most expensive treasures you could own.
📚 Historical Context
The book of Proverbs is a collection of wise sayings attributed to King Solomon, who ruled Israel around 970-931 BC, and it was written to provide practical guidance for living wisely in a world full of everyday challenges. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, gold and rubies were highly valued as symbols of wealth and status, often used in trade and as royal treasures. This proverb contrasts material riches with the superior worth of wise speech, emphasizing wisdom's role in a society that relied on oral teachings for moral instruction.
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