This verse almost seems out of place in the book of Proverbs. While it does give us wisdom and understanding; it is in the realm of philosophical understanding. The spirit of man, which was breathed into Adam’s nostrils by God in order to give him life (Gen 2:7), is that which makes a distinction between man and every other living creature. The capacity to think rational thoughts and communicate deep seated emotions, all takes place through the spirit of man. In a very real sense, the real you, is the spirit God has placed within your body; without it, you are a lifeless lump of mass. The point that Solomon is making here, is that our spirit’s function as borrowed light; allowing us to have some understanding of ourselves and others. 1 Corinthians 2:11 makes this same point, when Paul asks the question: For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? As our spirit’s search the inward parts of the belly, interpretations are made, which lead to conclusions and actions. This is where we connect this philosophical thought to practical wisdom. The truth of what we have said so far applies to those who are foolish just as much as those who are wise. It is at the point of interpretation that we must apply wisdom. A fool knows when he is emotional or upset, he just doesn’t always have an accurate understanding as to why; and this leads to a foolish reaction. Pride goes undetected in a fool, and this is because he is a fool. It doesn’t necessarily take a lot of wisdom to know how you are feeling. Wisdom is needed to get an accurate understanding as to why we feel the way we feel; and how we should respond to our feelings. This highlights the truth of Proverbs 4:7: Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.