means that the sages understand their place in the universe. While fear is not to be equated with terror, it is probably more than mere respect (see 1:7).81 After all, people are totally dependent on Yahweh, who created and sustains them. The sages understood this and therefore trembled in the presence of God. Pagans may well stumble on some interesting and helpful truth that provides insight on how to avoid a problem or achieve a desired goal. They may even be able to formulate that bit of advice