primary meaning is what comes first, in a temporal sequence or in appreciation (the best thing, as Am. 6:6 “the best oil”), with the additional technical sense of the first fruits offering (Ex. 23:19, etc.). What is the most likely sense in the maxim? Can it be that fear of the LORD is the first-fruits, or the “best fruit” produced by wisdom72? In favour of this rendering one can point only to Proverbs 2:1–5, where understanding of the fear of the LORD will reward those who seek wisdom. Yet, even