Paragraph 2:5–8

This paragraph introduces some of the results that come from fulfilling the conditions of 2:1–4. See the note on Paragraph 2:1–4 for ways to introduce 2:5.

2:5

Notice the parallel parts that are similar in meaning:

5a then you will discern the fear of the LORD

5b and discover the knowledge of God.

2:5a–b

discern the fear of the LORD…discover the knowledge of God: Neither of these parallel phrases is limited to mental knowledge or understanding about God. The phrase discern the fear of the LORD also indicates that a person will understand by personal experience what it means to revere the LORD. In this context, the phrase discover the knowledge of God implies that a person will become God’s faithful follower. He will come to know and obey God.

For the phrase the fear of the LORD see the note on 1:7a. For the phrase the knowledge of God see knowledge in the Glossary.

the LORD…God: In this verse, God is referred to both as the LORD, the personal name of God, and as God (ʾelohim). It is important that readers understand that both terms refer to the same person/being.

In some languages, it may be necessary to combine and/or reorder the parallel parts. For example:

Then you will understand what it means to revere and to know the LORD your God.

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