What does Proverbs 8:19 mean?

In this section, wisdom is speaking as a metaphorical woman, calling out to make herself known (Proverbs 8:1–4). What wisdom offers is of infinitely greater value than anything we could obtain on earth. Gold has often been the reference point for value, both poetically and literally. Even so, there have been material substances considered even more valuable. Certain gemstones, such as red beryl or musgravite, are worth thousands of times more than gold by weight. And yet, the value of godly wisdom (Proverbs 1:7) outweighs all of those (Proverbs 8:10–11).

The ultimate expression of godly wisdom is found in the person of Jesus Christ. To those who have faith in Him, He offers forgiveness, abundant and everlasting life, assurance of salvation, His constant presence, peace, joy, access to the Father, grace to help in time of need, guidance, provision for daily needs, security, and rewards. Those rewards include an incorruptible crown (1 Corinthians 9:25), a crown of life (James 1:12), a crown of righteousness (2 Timothy 4:8), and a crown of glory (1 Peter 5:4).

Material wealth is uncertain and temporal, but the wealth Jesus gives those who believe on Him is eternal. Furthermore, believers have an inheritance that is "imperishable, undefiled, and unfading" that is kept in heaven for them (1 Peter 1:4). Someday believers will see Jesus as He is and be like Him (1 John 3:2). No amount of worldly wealth can purchase what believers have in Christ. As a hymn writer testified, "I'd rather have Jesus than silver and gold."