Proverbs Introduction

Introduction and Proverbs 1:1-7

Authors

Solomon

Lemuel

Agur son of Jakeh

Probably others

Structure

Introduction: 1:1-7

Invitation to Wisdom (1:8-9:18)

Collections of Wise Sayings (10:1-31:9)

Proverbs of Solomon (10:1-22:16)

Words of the Wise (22:17-24:34)

Proverbs of Solomon Organized by Hezekiah’s Men (25:1-29:27)

Words of Agur (30:1-33)

Words of Lemuel (31:1-9)

Conclusion: The Virtuous Woman (30:10-31)

Date

Nature

Hebrew Poetry

Covenantal Context

Key Words

Proverbs 1:1–7 ESV

1 The proverbs of Solomon, son of David, king of Israel: 2 To know wisdom and instruction, to understand words of insight, 3 to receive instruction in wise dealing, in righteousness, justice, and equity; 4 to give prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the youth— 5 Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance, 6 to understand a proverb and a saying, the words of the wise and their riddles. 7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Introduction of Proverbs (v. 1)

the author

his identity

Purposes of Proverbs (v. 2-6)

to know and understand

to receive instruction

to give prudence, knowledge and discretion

to increase learning

to obtain guidance

to understand

Audience of Proverbs (v. 4-5)

the simple

the youth

the wise

the one who understands

Kinds of Proverbs (v. 6)

proverb

saying

words of the wise

riddles

Key Verse of Proverbs (v. 7)

two paths — two ways to go

to have knowledge and wisdom, listen and obey the LORD — seek Him and His will

to be foolish, don’t pay attention to the LORD’s Word and the wisdom and instruction He gives; count God’s words as worthless

Correspondence with Prov 9:10.

What does it mean to fear the LORD? Consider example of Genesis 22.

If we are going to benefit from Proverbs, it starts with a right relationship with God manifested by listening to His Word, loving Him above all else, and seeking to obey Him.

Wisdom is a person — Jesus Christ (Prov 8, 1 Cor 1)