He that getteth wisdom loveth his own soul: he that keepeth understanding shall find good.
Ver. 8. He that getteth wisdom.] Heb., He that getteth, or possesseth a heart; for we are born brutes, and are compared to "the horse and mule that have no understanding." Psa 32:9 Hearts we have all, but our "foolish hearts are darkened," Rom 1:21 yea, "a deceived heart hath turned us aside that we cannot deliver our souls, nor say, Is there not a lie in my right hand?" Isa 44:20 Well may the rich have many friends, but not many hearts: for without wisdom no man can love his own soul, much less can he truly love another. Therefore, by how much better it is for a man to love his own soul as he ought than to be beloved of others for his gifts, by so much it is better to get wisdom than to get wealth.