Significance of Proverbs of Solomon

Significance of Proverbs of Solomon

The proverbs of Solomon end here. The rest of the book is composed of three appendices (a) the words of Agur, as words of prophecy (b) the words of King Lemuel and (c) the praise of a good wife (Chapters 30, 31).The words of Agur the son of Jakeh, even the prophecy: the man spake unto Ithiel, even unto Ithiel and Ucal, (Proverbs 30:1)"Agur" means "the one who is brave in the pursuit of wisdom"; "the son of Jakeh" signifies "he who is free from sin"

Who is Agur? Jewish interpreters have seen in these titles (but apparently without a shadow of reason) a designation of Solomon himself, the “convener” and instructor of assemblies. We can believe that Agur is none by Solomon himself. This portrays Solomon as a prophet.

Lemuel (Hebrew: לְמוּאֵל‎ Ləmû'ēl, "to him, El") is the name of a Biblical king mentioned in Proverbs 31:1 and 4, but whose identity remains uncertain. Speculation exists and proposes that Lemuel was Hezekiah, Solomon, a king of Massa, or fictitious.

Unto Ithiel, even unto Ithiel and Ucal.—These most probably were disciples of Solomon's. As their names may mean “God with me,” and “I am strong,” a fanciful delineation of their characters, in the style of the “Pilgrim’s Progress,” has been attempted by some writers. And a mystical interpretation of them, “You must have God with you, if you are to be strong,” may be found in Bishop Wordsworth’s Commentary.

All the words of wisdom spoken by Solomon are words of prophecy.

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