Proverbs 1:1–4

Wisdom Defined and Introduced in Person.

THE TITLE AND THE INTRODUCTION. — V. 1. The proverbs of Solomon, the son of David, king of Israel, 1 Kings 1, 39; 2, 12, a proverb, in this connection, designating a maxim or aphorism rather than a popular proverbial saying;

• v. 2. to know, to become most intimately acquainted with, wisdom and instruction, the latter word referring to education, moral training, the practical Bide of wisdom, by which it finds its application in everyday life; to perceive the words of understanding, enabling one to discern between good and evil;

• v. 3. to receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity, a training to a reasonable, intelligent condition, to understand what is in agreement with duty and right and uprightness in one s entire behavior;

• v. 4. to give subtilty, cleverness, prudence, discernment, to the simple, to all who are too easily inclined to yield to the allurements of sin, to the young man, who is still inexperienced, knowledge and discretion, the thoughtfulness, circumspection, and caution which weighs every matter carefully and never plunges headlong into danger.

The author now shows that writings of this nature will be appreciated by such as are trying to shape their conduct in life in accordance with the will of God.