Proverbs
Book Type
The fourth book of Wisdom; the twentieth book of the Old Testament; the twentieth book of the Bible.Introduction to the Book of Proverbs
Proverbs consists of many wise sayings, compiled into a book. These sayings offer practical advice for daily life and vary widely in their content—ranging from work and money to speech, integrity, and discipline. But the wisdom in Proverbs is not just about practical advice; Proverbs reminds us that true wisdom derives from the fear of Yahweh and has its source in Him (Prov 1:7; 2:6; 9:10).Each day, life confronts us with many decisions. The book of Proverbs is a compass that helps us navigate the murky waters of life. It provides wisdom, instructions for living, and guidance for achieving strong character. Proverbs tells us how to succeed in any situation by remaining calm-headed in a crisis, patient when pressed, gentle when challenged, and firm when confronted with temptation. Above all, Proverbs shows us that the source of all wisdom is a right relationship with God.What is a proverb? A secular proverb seeks to state a general (not absolute) truth, such as “a fool and his money are soon parted.” It is typically pithy, that is, it is brief but rich in meaning: “No pain, no gain.” A proverb is practical; it gives advice that is useful in the real world: “A stitch in time saves nine.” It should be applied; the reader should consider what changes he should make in his own life in light of the proverb: “Charity begins at home.” A proverb is derived from astute observations about how life usually works; the creator of a proverb shows himself very knowledgeable and perceptive, able to see what is generally true and to draw conclusions from it: “The pen is mightier than the sword.”“Wisdom calls out in the street; she makes her voice heard in the public squares. She cries out above the commotion; she speaks at the entrance of the city gates: ‘How long, inexperienced ones, will you love ignorance?’ ” (1:20–22)In addition to all this, the proverbs in the book of Proverbs are also divinely inspired. Since they come from God, we know they are true and we can be certain they are beneficial: “The one who understands a matter finds success, and the one who trusts in the LORD will be happy” (16:20). Biblical proverbs not only offer practical advice for this life but also guide the reader to eternal life: “For the prudent the path of life leads upward, so that he may avoid going down to Sheol” (15:24).Theme & Overview
Proverbs describes the importance of living wisely and in the fear of the Lord as opposed to following the seductive path of folly.From daytime talk shows to advice columns and self-help books, our culture is glutted with information—but often starved for wisdom. The complexity of life requires practical counsel that is also meaningfully spiritual. Proverbs offers this spiritual depth to issues like managing money, the dangers of adultery, learning how to identify true friends, and so much more. Here you’ll find wisdom that works and insights that won’t wear out. The NIV Quest Study Bible says pay close attention to the differing outcomes of those who follow God’s wisdom and those who don’t. And as you read Proverbs, watch for contrasting issues such as foolishness and wisdom, laziness and diligence, adultery and faithfulness, and true and false friendships. Look for principles that build strong marriages, undergird faithful parenting, and establish good relationships on the job.The main theme of Proverbs is that wisdom proceeds from revering and trusting God. Our actions reflect our inner character, and vice versa; by honoring God with our lives and following His wisdom, we can expect to experience the blessing of God’s goodness. In the natural order of God’s world, good character produces a life that will flourish, though Proverbs is also clear that the natural order does not always win; sometimes, against all logic, evil and folly thrive.The primary concern of Proverbs, like other wisdom literature from the ancient Near East, is instruction: Younger generations need such wisdom to live well. But the book of Proverbs is also unique among its contemporaries in its emphasis on worshiping Yahweh—the only true source of such wisdom and fullness of life (Prov 3:19). Proverbs repeatedly shows us that we must live according to Yahweh’s ways—by living ethically, representing justice, and caring for the weak and impoverished—even when society at large tells us otherwise.The main theme of Proverbs is that wisdom proceeds from revering and trusting God. Our actions reflect our inner character, and vice versa; by honoring God with our lives and following His wisdom, we can expect to experience the blessing of God’s goodness. In the natural order of God’s world, good character produces a life that will flourish, though Proverbs is also clear that the natural order does not always win; sometimes, against all logic, evil and folly thrive.The primary concern of Proverbs, like other wisdom literature from the ancient Near East, is instruction: Younger generations need such wisdom to live well. But the book of Proverbs is also unique among its contemporaries in its emphasis on worshiping Yahweh—the only true source of such wisdom and fullness of life (Prov 3:19). Proverbs repeatedly shows us that we must live according to Yahweh’s ways—by living ethically, representing justice, and caring for the weak and impoverished—even when society at large tells us otherwise.Proverbs states its theme right at the book’s beginning (1:1–7): its goal is to describe and instill “wisdom” in God’s people, a wisdom that is founded in the “fear of the LORD” and that works out covenant life in the practical details of everyday situations and relationships.Author
Proverbs is generally associated with its primary author, Solomon. However, he is only specifically listed as the author of Proverbs 1—22:16. Proverbs 22:17—24:34 were likely only compiled by Solomon, rather than being originally written by him. Proverbs 25—29 are attributed to Solomon but were recorded by King Hezekiah (Proverbs 25:1). Agur is noted as the author of chapter 30, while Lemuel is noted as author of chapter 31. Some argue Lemuel is another name associated with Solomon.Recipients
As a book of Jewish wisdom literature originally composed in Hebrew, Proverbs was composed for the education of Jewish readers. However, it was not collected in its final form until later, at least the time of King Hezekiah (726—697 BC.) and was therefore originally most likely compiled for the people of Judah during this time period.Date
The proverbs were written from the time of Solomon (970—931 BC) through the time of King Hezekiah (726—697 BC). The final form of the book likely began to circulate late in the reign of King Hezekiah, perhaps around 700 BC.Background
Although the first line of Proverbs associates the entire book with Solomon, the content is ascribed to at least three authors: Solomon (Prov 1:1; 10:1; 25:1), Agur (Prov 30:1), and Lemuel (Prov 31:1). Agur and Lemuel are unknown outside the book. But Solomon, the son of King David, reigned over Israel in the 10th century BC and was renowned for speaking proverbs (1 Kgs 4:32). It is possible that Solomon wrote the proverbs attributed to him, or he might have sponsored their collection. The work of collecting wise teachings was likely ongoing in Israel, but it is mentioned explicitly in Proverbs 25:1 as occurring during the reign of King Hezekiah—who ruled the southern kingdom of Israel, known as Judah, about 200 years after Solomon. Collectively, this evidence seems to indicate that the book of Proverbs was composed over time with multiple contributors—which aligns with how proverbs were handed down in the ancient world. They usually circulated orally long before they were collected in written form. Proverbs likely has roots during Solomon’s reign, but might not have reached its final form until the Persian period (ca. 540–332 BC) or the early Hellenistic era (ca. fourth to third centuries BC).Proverbs is the prime biblical example of wisdom literature; other examples include Job, Ecclesiastes, and possibly Song of Songs. Wisdom literature is interested in giving its readers, especially young people, advice on how to cultivate virtue, avoid foolishness, and gain divine favor. The people groups surrounding Israel had their own versions of wisdom literature, which provided a background for Israelite sages and might have been adapted by them. Israel’s recorded history compares Solomon’s wisdom to that of nearby cultures, proclaiming his wisdom to be greater than that of Egypt and all the peoples of the east (1 Kgs 4:30). The Instruction of Amenemope, an Egyptian collection of sayings that dates to the 12th century BC, bears a resemblance to Proverbs 22:17–24:22. Collections of Mesopotamian proverbs likewise bear similarities to the genre of Proverbs.Proverbs is ancient Israel’s anthology of wise sayings, advice, instructions, and warnings. The book is structured as a manual for a young man launching his career. The son appears to be at an age when he would be entering a profession, and some of the proverbs seem intended to help a young man get along in his career.While Proverbs is Israel’s anthology, it is not only for the people of Israel but for everyone. The book contains just a few references to Israel’s specific ideas and institutions, such as the covenant, Israel’s redemptive history (e.g., the Exodus), and its formal religious institutions (such as sacrifice and atonement). Proverbs supplements Israel’s formal religion with practical advice.Proverbs is a collection of sayings from various times and social contexts. Many individual proverbs find their primary setting in the royal court, addressing matters such as how to act in front of a king. Some proverbs have a family setting and best fit an agricultural context. Others pertain to the world of commerce, trade, and business. Proverbs offers wisdom and guidance for success in all the spheres of life that a young man in ancient Israel might face. Yet it is also timeless, with significant application to readers today.The Purpose & Audience (Reasons for the letter)
Proverbs is a book of practical wisdom for the affairs of life. It often takes the form of a father teaching his son, who receives instruction for an enriched life. As he walks the path of life, the son will come to crossroads where he must make decisions about which way to go.Beyond its original audience, Proverbs helps us to make right choices today. The book of Proverbs instructs the reader that there are rewards for wise behavior and punishments for foolish behavior. While these rewards motivate us to heed instruction, they are not universal promises. Proverbs offers principles that are generally true. For example, a person who works hard and has integrity is likely to have more material resources than a lazy and shiftless person. However, the lazy person might inherit wealth, and a hard worker might lose wealth when exploited by a corrupt government official. (This disjunction between righteousness and material reward is a major theme of Ecclesiastes and Job.) Rather than guaranteeing a favorable outcome, wisdom gives us generally true principles for life decisions.On the surface, the advice of Proverbs sometimes seems to contradict itself, but careful reading reveals the circumstances to which each piece of advice applies. Should we answer a fool’s arguments? Or should we be silent when we realize that we are arguing with a fool (26:4–5)? It depends. We find the same thing with English aphorisms. On some occasions “Look before you leap” applies; other times we are reminded that “He who hesitates is lost.” Contradictory sayings might both be true in different situations. Proverbs are not laws; they offer general advice and guidance. The truly wise person knows when to apply a particular proverb and when not to.The wisdom of Proverbs is practical, but the sayings contain much more than good advice. The message of Proverbs is that real wisdom is based on relationship with God, the true source of all wisdom. This message is expressed in 1:7, “Fear of the LORD is the foundation of true knowledge.” Proverbs invokes a fundamental spiritual choice because there is no true wisdom apart from a living relationship with God.Because these proverbs are in the Bible, they do not just entertain; they exhort, encourage, and offer hope. Solomon called readers, especially youth, to pursue wisdom rather than foolishness. He encouraged the inexperienced to become wise rather than mockers, to be teachable rather than incorrigible, to live rather than to die. He predicted that people who pursued wisdom would generally find success and happiness in this life, but he promised that they would absolutely find joy and blessing in eternity.There is a close connection between God and wisdom. For example, both call for obedience and morality and both promise success and eternal life. They are connected because wisdom presupposes the fear of God; because God is the source of this inspired, godly advice; and because God himself guarantees the blessings that wisdom promises. The benefits of wisdom and of God are the same. What wisdom promises is what God grants (4:4–8).CONTRIBUTION TO THE BIBLEThe Law and the Prophets teach how to live in spiritual community. Wisdom teaches how to live practically and courteously with one another. The book of Job addresses one main idea: the sovereignty of God with regard to suffering. Ecclesiastes contemplates the meaning of this ephemeral life. Solomon’s Song demonstrates romantic love. Proverbs covers the rest of wisdom’s topics, from how to conduct business astutely yet fairly, to how to live happily within marriage.Key Verses (ESV)
Proverbs 1:5: "Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance." Proverbs 1:7: "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction."Proverbs 4:5: "Get wisdom; get insight; do not forget, and do not turn away from the words of my mouth."Proverbs 8:13–14: "The fear of the LORD is hatred of evil. Pride and arrogance and the way of evil and perverted speech I hate. I have counsel and sound wisdom; I have insight; I have strength."Proverbs 18:13: "If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame."Proverbs 26:4–5: "Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest you be like him yourself. Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own eyes."Proverbs 27:5: "Better is open rebuke than hidden love."Proverbs 29:1: "He who is often reproved, yet stiffens his neck, will suddenly be broken beyond healing."Proverbs 31:30–31: "Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates."Key Passages (NLT)
Pr 1:1–8These are the proverbs of Solomon, David’s son, king of Israel. Their purpose is to teach people wisdom and discipline, to help them understand the insights of the wise. Their purpose is to teach people to live disciplined and successful lives, to help them do what is…Pr 10:1The proverbs of Solomon: A wise child brings joy to a father; a foolish child brings grief to a mother.Pr 25:1These are more proverbs of Solomon, collected by the advisers of King Hezekiah of Judah.Structure & Outline 1
Although the sayings in Proverbs may seem like a random assortment, the collection is actually a curated, unified literary work. The text includes seven distinct groups of proverbs, some of which are attributed to different authors and exhibit two styles of writing. Notably, the first collection’s long discourses on wisdom (Prov 1:1–9:18) contrast with the other six collections’ much shorter sayings (Prov 10:1–31:31). Multiple topics are scattered across these collections. Advice regarding subjects such as laziness (Prov 6:6–11; 10:4; 24:30–34; 26:13), sexual immorality (Prov 5:1–23; 23:26–28; 29:3), humility (Prov 11:2; 25:6–7; 29:23), and friendship (Prov 13:20; 22:24–25; 27:17) can be found throughout the book.Outline • Instructions from teacher to student (Prov 1:1–9:18) • The proverbs of Solomon (Prov 10:1–22:16) • The words of the wise (Prov 22:17–24:22) • Further words of the wise (Prov 24:23–34) • The proverbs of Solomon collected by Hezekiah’s men (Prov 25:1–29:27) • The words of Agur (Prov 30:1–33) • The words of Lemuel (Prov 31:1–31)Outline 2
Proverbs is unique among other Bible books for several reasons. It primarily involves a series of wise sayings, on a broad range of topics, rather than a narrative. So, unlike other passages in the Bible, these tidbits can be readily understood when read alone. Most Scripture is meant to be read in a continuous passage, while proverbs are meant to be short, independent, and general. However, a basic structure of the book still exists. Proverbs 1:1¬–7 gives an introduction to the book.After this, the first nine chapters focus on wise sayings to instruct those who are young (Proverbs 1:8—9:18). Chapter 1 emphasizes wisdom, chapter 2 notes wisdom's value, chapter 3 teaches about trusting the Lord with all of your heart, chapter 4 expresses a father's wisdom, chapters 5—7 warn against various sins, including adultery, chapter 8 extols the blessings of wisdom, while chapter 9 provides the way of wisdom.Next, general proverbs are recorded in chapters 10—29. These include three sections covering proverbs from Solomon (Proverbs 10—22:16), proverbs from other wise men (Proverbs 22:17—24:34), and additional proverbs from Solomon collected by the men of Hezekiah (Proverbs 25—29).A fourth section includes two final chapters by additional authors. Chapter 30 relates the words of Agur, while chapter 31 contains wise sayings from Lemuel, including the beloved description of a wife of noble character.