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Reading Proverbs
Reading Proverbs
The book of Proverbs actually is a collection of several collections of wise sayings. Gordon Fee listed these collections:
Proverbs of Solomon I (10:1–22:16)
Sayings of the Wise I (22:17–24:22)
Sayings of the Wise II (24:23–34)
Proverbs of Solomon II (25:1–29:27)
Sayings of Agur (30:1–33)
Sayings of Lemuel (31:1–31)*
Before we begin reading the actual proverbs, the book has a collection of 'poems' about wisdom and folly. "...chapters 1–9 provide the ideals and motivation for pursuing wisdom, giving the right frame of mind in which to read the one-sentence proverbs" (ESV Study Bible). In these opening chapters we see the constant encouragement to 'receive instruction in wise behavior, righteousness, justice, and equity..." (1:3). There will be warnings concerning the almost universal temptations of youth: easy money, immature counsel from friends, the danger of friendships with the unrighteous, and immorality.
While these opening chapters are not actual proverbs, they are constructed to give a lasting impression upon the readers. They are like very short stories, almost like parables. This allows them to be quickly read and the point easily understood.
The ESV Study bible gave this outline of these opening chapters:
I. Title, Goal, and Motto (1:1–7)
II. A Father’s Invitation to Wisdom (1:8–9:18)
A. First paternal appeal: do not join those greedy for unjust gain (1:8–19)
B. First wisdom appeal (1:20–33)
C. Second paternal appeal: get wisdom (2:1–22)
D. Third paternal appeal: fear the Lord (3:1–12)
E. A hymn to wisdom (3:13–20)
F. Fourth paternal appeal: walk securely in wisdom (3:21–35)
G. Fifth paternal appeal: wisdom is a tradition worth maintaining (4:1–9)
H. Sixth paternal appeal: the two ways (4:10–19)
I. Seventh paternal appeal: maintain a heart of wisdom (4:20–27)
J. Eighth paternal appeal: sexuality (5:1–23)
K. Warnings relating to securing debt, sloth, and sowing discord (6:1–19)
L. Ninth paternal appeal: adultery leads to ruin (6:20–35)
M. Tenth paternal appeal: keep away from temptations to adultery (7:1–27)
N. Second wisdom appeal (8:1–36)
O. Lady Wisdom and Lady Folly (9:1–18)
So, get a cup of coffee (or whatever beverage of choice), find a comfortable reading place, and lets get wisdom. Hugh DeLong
* Gordon Fee, How To Read The Bible Book By Book, Zondervan, LOGOS edition).
