◄ Proverbs 1 ►
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The Beginning of Knowledge (Proverbs 9:1–12) 1These are the proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel, 2for gaining wisdom and discipline, for comprehending words of insight, 3and for receiving instruction in wise living and in righteousness, justice, and equity. 4To impart prudence to the simplea and knowledge and discretion to the young, 5let the wise listen and gain instruction, and the discerning acquire wise counsel 6by understanding the proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise. 7The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but foolsb despise wisdom and discipline. The Enticement of Sin 8Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction, and do not forsake the teaching of your mother. 9For they are a garland of grace on your head and a pendant around your neck. 10My son, if sinners entice you, do not yield to them. 11If they say, “Come along, let us lie in wait for blood, let us ambush the innocent without cause, 12let us swallow them alive like Sheol, and whole like those descending into the Pit. 13We will find all manner of precious goods; we will fill our houses with plunder. 14Throw in your lot with us; let us all share one purse”— 15my son, do not walk the road with them or set foot upon their path. 16For their feet run to evil, and they are swift to shed blood. 17How futile it is to spread the net where any bird can see it! 18But they lie in wait for their own blood; they ambush their own lives. 19Such is the fate of all who are greedy, whose unjust gain takes the lives of its possessors. Wisdom Calls Aloud 20Wisdom calls out in the street, she lifts her voice in the square; 21in the main concoursec she cries aloud, at the city gates she makes her speech: 22“How long, O simple ones, will you love your simple ways? How long will scoffers delight in their scorn and fools hate knowledge? 23If you had repented at my rebuke, then surely I would have poured out my spirit on you; I would have made my words known to you. 24Because you refused my call, and no one took my outstretched hand, 25because you neglected all my counsel, and wanted none of my correction, 26in turn I will mock your calamity; I will sneer when terror strikes you, 27when your dread comes like a storm, and your destruction like a whirlwind, when distress and anguish overwhelm you. 28Then they will call on me, but I will not answer; they will earnestly seek me, but will not find me. 29For they hated knowledge and chose not to fear the LORD. 30They accepted none of my counsel; they despised all my reproof. 31So they will eat the fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices. 32For the waywardness of the simple will slay them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them. 33But whoever listens to me will dwell in safety, secure from the fear of evil.” Footnotes: 4 a The Hebrew word rendered simple in Proverbs refers to one who is naive, without moral direction, or inclined to evil. 7 b The Hebrew words rendered as fool in Proverbs denote one who is morally deficient. 21 c Or from the top of the wall Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Proverbs 1 Summary Wisdom Calls Aloud Verse 1 – Superscription Solomon, son of David and king of Israel, is named as the source of the proverbs. His royal office and God-given wisdom frame everything that follows. Verses 2–7 – Purpose and Theme The book states its goals: growing in wisdom, discipline, understanding, prudence, knowledge, and discretion. It is for the inexperienced, the young, and the already wise. Verse 7 rings out as the motto: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline”. Verses 8–19 – Warning Against Enticement A father pleads with his son to heed parental teaching. Violent companions invite him to easy wealth through bloodshed, but their path ends in their own ruin. Greed boomerangs on the greedy. Verses 20–33 – Wisdom’s Public Call Wisdom is pictured as a woman shouting in the streets, urging the simple and mockers to turn. If ignored, disaster will strike and Wisdom will not intervene. Those who listen will “dwell securely and be at ease without fear of harm” (v 33). Proverbs 1, a profound chapter of the Bible, is penned by Solomon, one of the wisest men who ever lived. This chapter serves as an introduction to the Book of Proverbs and sets a foundation of moral instruction, wisdom, and understanding. It provides timeless truths and universal principles aimed to guide human conduct. Authorship and Setting • Solomon (1 Kings 4:32) “spoke three thousand proverbs,” and many are gathered here. • The final form of Proverbs likely took shape during Israel’s monarchy and was preserved through the exile, giving later generations access to the king’s God-given insight. • Court education in the ancient Near East often used collections like this; Proverbs stands apart by grounding instruction in covenant loyalty to the LORD. Purpose of the Book and Key Themes 1. Skill for living: “wisdom” (Hebrew ḥokmah) is practical ability to navigate life. 2. Moral backbone: “discipline” corrects and trains. 3. Discernment: learning to distinguish good paths from deadly ones. 4. Covenant reverence: every lesson circles back to fearing the LORD. Fear of the LORD • Not terror but awe, trust, and obedient loyalty (cf. Deuteronomy 10:12; Psalm 34:11). • It is “the beginning,” meaning the foundation and starting point of all true knowledge. • When Jesus said, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart” (Matthew 22:37), He echoed the same starting point. Parental Instruction • “My son” occurs over twenty times in chapters 1–7; family is God’s first classroom (Deuteronomy 6:6-9). • The father and mother speak with one voice, modeling united guidance. • The “garland” and “pendant” (v 9) picture public honor; obedience yields visible blessing. The Path of the Wicked • The sinners’ speech (vv 11-14) stresses group pressure—“come with us.” • Violence and greed are twin temptations (cf. Micah 2:1-2). • Verse 19 summarizes a biblical principle: wrong-gotten gain destroys its owner (Proverbs 15:27; 1 Timothy 6:9-10). Personified Wisdom • Lady Wisdom appears here and in 3:13-20; 8:1-36; 9:1-6. • She is public, urgent, and moral—contrasting with the secretive, seductive voice in chapter 7. • Her invitation and warning foreshadow Christ, “the power of God and the wisdom of God” (1 Corinthians 1:24). Archaeological and Historical Notes • Similar instructional texts exist in Egypt (e.g., “Instruction of Amenemope”) and Mesopotamia, but only Proverbs roots wisdom in a living God. • City gates (v 21) were hubs of commerce and legal decisions; Wisdom plants herself where everyday choices are made. • Ancient streets were narrow marketplaces; Wisdom meets people mid-transaction, emphasizing daily application. Key Hebrew Words • ḥokmah – wisdom, skillful living. • mûsar – discipline, correction. • ʿormah – prudence, shrewdness (v 4), positive foresight rather than trickery. • yirʾat YHWH – fear of the LORD, reverent submission. Connections to the New Testament • Verse 7’s “fear of the LORD” undergirds Paul’s call to “work out your salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12). • Wisdom’s plea (vv 20-23) parallels Jesus’ invitation, “Come to Me…and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28-30). • The rejection of Wisdom and ensuing judgment (vv 24-32) foreshadow Jesus’ lament over Jerusalem (Matthew 23:37-38). • Security for those who heed (v 33) anticipates the peace Christ gives, “not as the world gives” (John 14:27). Practical Application • Choose your companions wisely; peer pressure can propel or poison. • Make daily space to listen—Wisdom still cries out through Scripture, godly counsel, and conscience. • Cultivate healthy fear of the LORD, the root system that keeps every other virtue alive. • Parents: speak proactively; silence lets other voices disciple your children. • When tempted by quick gain, recall the end—self-harm. • In crises, don’t wait; turning to Wisdom after disaster has struck may be too late to avoid the consequences, though God still forgives. Key Takeaway Life’s success is not luck but learned skill anchored in reverent relationship with the LORD. Listen early, listen often, and live. Connections to Additional Scriptures James 1:5 Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. This verse encourages believers to seek wisdom from God. Psalm 111:10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow His precepts gain rich understanding. His praise endures forever! This reinforces the theme of reverence for God as foundational to wisdom. Matthew 7:24-27 Jesus’ parable of the wise and foolish builders illustrates the importance of building one’s life on the solid foundation of His teachings. Teaching Points The Purpose of Proverbs Proverbs 1:2-3 states, To know wisdom and discipline, to comprehend the words of insight, to receive instruction in wise living, in righteousness, justice, and equity. The book aims to impart practical wisdom for righteous living. The Fear of the Lord Proverbs 1:7 declares, The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline. Reverence for God is foundational to acquiring true knowledge and wisdom. Parental Instruction Proverbs 1:8-9 emphasizes the value of heeding parental guidance: Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction, and do not forsake the teaching of your mother. For they are a garland of grace on your head and a pendant around your neck. Warning Against Enticement Proverbs 1:10-19 warns against the allure of sinful behavior and the company of sinners, highlighting the destructive end of such paths. Wisdom’s Call Proverbs 1:20-23 personifies wisdom as calling out in public spaces, urging people to embrace her and reject foolishness. Consequences of Ignoring Wisdom Proverbs 1:24-33 outlines the dire consequences of ignoring wisdom’s call, emphasizing that calamity will befall those who reject her. Practical Applications Seek Godly Wisdom Make it a daily practice to seek wisdom through prayer and the study of Scripture, recognizing that true wisdom begins with a reverent relationship with God. Value Instruction Be open to receiving instruction and correction from godly mentors, parents, and leaders, understanding that such guidance is a gift. Choose Companions Wisely Surround yourself with individuals who encourage righteous living and avoid those who entice you towards sin. Heed Wisdom’s Call Be attentive to the voice of wisdom in your life, whether through Scripture, the Holy Spirit, or wise counsel, and be willing to change course when necessary. People 1. Solomon Description: The author of Proverbs, identified in the opening verse as "Solomon son of David, king of Israel" (Proverbs 1:1). Solomon is renowned for his wisdom, which he received from God (1 Kings 3:5-12). The Hebrew root for Solomon is "שְׁלֹמֹה" (Shelomoh), meaning "peaceful." 2. The Wise Description: Those who seek and value wisdom, understanding, and instruction. Proverbs 1:5 states, "Let the wise listen and gain instruction, and the discerning acquire wise counsel." The Hebrew word for wise is "חָכָם" (chakam), indicating skill and prudence. 3. The Simple Description: Individuals who are naive or inexperienced, often lacking judgment. Proverbs 1:4 mentions giving "prudence to the simple." The Hebrew term is "פֶּתִי" (pethi), meaning simple or naive. 4. The Fool Description: Those who despise wisdom and discipline. Proverbs 1:7 says, "Fools despise wisdom and discipline." The Hebrew word is "כְּסִיל" (kesil), which implies stubbornness and moral deficiency. 5. The Scoffer Description: A person who mocks or ridicules wisdom. Proverbs 1:22 asks, "How long will scoffers delight in their scorn?" The Hebrew term is "לֵץ" (lets), meaning one who scorns or mocks. 6. The Father Description: Represents parental guidance and authority. Proverbs 1:8 advises, "Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction." The Hebrew word for father is "אָב" (av). 7. The Mother Description: Symbolizes nurturing and teaching. Proverbs 1:8 continues, "and do not forsake the teaching of your mother." The Hebrew word for mother is "אֵם" (em). 8. Sinners Description: Those who entice others to do wrong. Proverbs 1:10 warns, "My son, if sinners entice you, do not yield to them." The Hebrew word is "חַטָּא" (chatta), meaning sinners or offenders. 9. Wisdom (Personified as a Woman) Description: Wisdom is personified as a woman calling out in public places. Proverbs 1:20 states, "Wisdom calls out in the street, she lifts her voice in the square." The Hebrew word for wisdom is "חָכְמָה" (chokmah), often depicted as a feminine figure offering guidance and insight. Places 1. The Streets Proverbs 1:20: "Wisdom calls out in the street, she lifts her voice in the square." Description: The streets represent public places where people gather, symbolizing the accessibility and public nature of wisdom's call. The Hebrew word used here, "חוּץ" (chuts), refers to outside or open areas. 2. The Square Proverbs 1:20: "Wisdom calls out in the street, she lifts her voice in the square." Description: The square is a central place in a city where people meet, indicating that wisdom is available to all who are willing to listen. The Hebrew term "רְחֹבוֹת" (rechovot) refers to broad places or plazas. 3. The City Gates Proverbs 1:21: "At the head of the noisy streets she cries out, in the gateways of the city she makes her speech." Description: The city gates were places of legal and social transactions, symbolizing a place of decision-making and judgment. The Hebrew word "שַׁעַר" (sha'ar) denotes gates or entrances, often associated with authority and governance. Events 1. Introduction to Proverbs The book begins with an introduction stating its purpose: "The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel" (Proverbs 1:1). This sets the stage for the wisdom literature attributed to Solomon. 2. Purpose of Proverbs The purpose is outlined: "for gaining wisdom and discipline, for comprehending words of insight" (Proverbs 1:2). The Hebrew word for wisdom, "חָכְמָה" (chokmah), implies skill and applied knowledge. 3. Instruction for the Simple and the Young Proverbs aims to impart prudence to the simple and knowledge and discretion to the young: "to impart prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young" (Proverbs 1:4). The term "simple" refers to those who are naive or inexperienced. 4. Guidance for the Wise Even the wise can benefit: "Let the wise listen and gain instruction, and the discerning acquire wise counsel" (Proverbs 1:5). This suggests that wisdom is a continual pursuit. 5. Fear of the LORD as the Beginning of Knowledge The foundational principle is stated: "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline" (Proverbs 1:7). The Hebrew word "יִרְאָה" (yirah) for fear implies reverence and awe. 6. Warning Against Enticement by Sinners A warning is given against being enticed by sinners: "My son, if sinners entice you, do not yield to them" (Proverbs 1:10). This highlights the importance of resisting peer pressure and temptation. 7. Consequences of Joining with Sinners The text describes the consequences of joining with sinners: "Such is the fate of all who are greedy, whose unjust gain takes the lives of its possessors" (Proverbs 1:19). This serves as a moral warning against greed and violence. 8. Wisdom’s Call in the Streets Wisdom is personified and calls out publicly: "Wisdom calls out in the street, she lifts her voice in the square" (Proverbs 1:20). The personification emphasizes the accessibility and public nature of wisdom. 9. Rebuke of the Simple, Scoffers, and Fools Wisdom rebukes those who reject her: "How long, O simple ones, will you love your simple ways? How long will scoffers delight in their scorn and fools hate knowledge?" (Proverbs 1:22). This rebuke is a call to change. 10. Consequences of Ignoring Wisdom The consequences of ignoring wisdom are severe: "Then they will call on me, but I will not answer; they will earnestly seek me, but will not find me" (Proverbs 1:28). This highlights the urgency of heeding wisdom's call. 11. Security for Those Who Listen to Wisdom A promise of security is given to those who heed wisdom: "But whoever listens to me will dwell in safety, secure from the fear of evil" (Proverbs 1:33). This assurance underscores the protective nature of wisdom. Lessons from Proverbs 1 1. The Beginning of Wisdom: Fear of the Lord The book of Proverbs opens with a profound truth: "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline" (Proverbs 1:7). This foundational principle reminds us that true wisdom starts with a reverent awe of God. When we acknowledge His sovereignty and seek His guidance, we set ourselves on a path of understanding and insight. Embrace this divine wisdom, and let it guide your decisions and actions. 2. Embrace Parental Guidance Proverbs 1:8-9 encourages us to "listen, my son, to your father’s instruction, and do not forsake the teaching of your mother." The wisdom of our parents is a treasure trove of life lessons. Their experiences and teachings are like a garland of grace around our necks, offering protection and direction. Cherish their counsel, and let it shape your journey. 3. Avoid the Path of the Wicked The allure of sin can be tempting, but Proverbs 1:10 warns, "My son, if sinners entice you, do not yield to them." The path of the wicked is fraught with danger and destruction. Instead, choose the path of righteousness, which leads to peace and fulfillment. Stand firm in your convictions, and resist the pull of temptation. 4. The Consequences of Greed Proverbs 1:19 cautions, "Such is the fate of all who are greedy, whose unjust gain takes the lives of its possessors." Greed is a trap that ensnares the soul, leading to ruin and loss. Pursue contentment and generosity, and you will find true wealth in relationships and spiritual growth. Remember, it is more blessed to give than to receive. 5. Wisdom's Call Wisdom is not hidden; it calls out to us in the streets, as Proverbs 1:20-21 describes. "Wisdom calls out in the street, she lifts her voice in the square." Be attentive to the voice of wisdom in your daily life. It speaks through Scripture, godly counsel, and the quiet nudges of the Holy Spirit. Open your heart to its guidance, and you will walk securely. 6. The Danger of Ignoring Wisdom Proverbs 1:24-25 warns of the peril of ignoring wisdom: "Because you refused my call, and no one took my outstretched hand." Ignoring wisdom leads to calamity and distress. When we turn a deaf ear to God's guidance, we miss out on His protection and blessings. Be proactive in seeking wisdom, and let it illuminate your path. 7. The Security of the Wise For those who heed wisdom's call, Proverbs 1:33 offers a promise: "But whoever listens to me will dwell in safety, secure from the fear of evil." Embracing wisdom brings peace and security, shielding us from the chaos of the world. Trust in God's wisdom, and you will find refuge and strength in His presence. 8. The Importance of Discernment Discernment is a key theme in Proverbs 1. It is the ability to distinguish between right and wrong, truth and deception. Proverbs 1:4 highlights its value: "To impart prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young." Cultivate discernment through prayer and study of the Word, and it will guide you in making wise choices. 9. The Value of Instruction Proverbs 1:5 encourages us to "let the wise listen and gain instruction, and the discerning acquire wise counsel." Instruction is a lifelong pursuit. Be open to learning from others, and seek out mentors who can offer godly wisdom. As you grow in knowledge, you will be better equipped to navigate life's challenges. 10. The Promise of Wisdom Finally, Proverbs 1:23 offers a beautiful promise: "If you turn to my reproof, behold, I will pour out my spirit on you; I will make my words known to you." When we respond to wisdom's correction, God promises to pour out His Spirit upon us, granting us deeper understanding and insight. Embrace this promise, and let it transform your life. Incorporate these lessons from Proverbs 1 into your daily walk, and watch as your life is enriched by the timeless wisdom of Scripture. Topics 1. Purpose of Proverbs Proverbs 1:1-6 outlines the purpose of the book, which is to impart wisdom, discipline, and understanding. The Hebrew word for wisdom, "חָכְמָה" (chokmah), implies skillful living and moral insight. 2. The Fear of the LORD Proverbs 1:7 states, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline." The term "fear" (יִרְאָה, yirah) denotes reverence and awe, foundational for acquiring true knowledge. 3. Warning Against Enticement Proverbs 1:8-19 warns against being enticed by sinners. It emphasizes listening to parental instruction and avoiding the path of violence and greed. The Hebrew root "פָּתָה" (pathah) for "enticement" suggests being deceived or led astray. 4. The Call of Wisdom Proverbs 1:20-33 personifies wisdom as calling out in public spaces, urging people to heed her reproof. The Hebrew word for wisdom here, "חָכְמוֹת" (chokhmot), is in the plural form, indicating the manifold nature of wisdom's call. Each of these topics in Proverbs 1 sets the stage for the themes of wisdom, moral instruction, and the consequences of ignoring divine guidance, which are further developed throughout the book. Themes 1. The Pursuit of Wisdom Proverbs 1:2-3 emphasizes the importance of acquiring wisdom and understanding: "To know wisdom and discipline, to comprehend the words of insight, to receive instruction in wise living, in righteousness, justice, and equity." The Hebrew word for wisdom, "חָכְמָה" (chokmah), implies skillful living and moral insight. 2. The Fear of the LORD Proverbs 1:7 states, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline." The Hebrew word for fear, "יִרְאָה" (yirah), conveys reverence and awe, which is foundational for true knowledge. 3. Parental Instruction Proverbs 1:8-9 highlights the value of heeding parental guidance: "Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction, and do not forsake the teaching of your mother. For they are a garland of grace on your head and a pendant around your neck." This underscores the biblical principle of honoring and learning from one's parents. 4. The Consequences of Sinful Associations Proverbs 1:10-19 warns against joining with sinners: "My son, if sinners entice you, do not yield to them... Such is the fate of all who are greedy, whose unjust gain takes the lives of its possessors." The passage cautions against the destructive path of greed and violence. 5. The Call of Wisdom Proverbs 1:20-23 personifies wisdom as calling out in public: "Wisdom calls out in the street, she lifts her voice in the square... How long, O simple ones, will you love your simple ways?" This theme emphasizes the accessibility and urgency of heeding wisdom's call. 6. The Consequences of Rejecting Wisdom Proverbs 1:24-31 describes the dire consequences of ignoring wisdom: "Because you refused my call and no one took my outstretched hand... they will eat the fruit of their own way and be filled with their own devices." This highlights the inevitable downfall of those who reject divine wisdom. 7. Security in Heeding Wisdom Proverbs 1:32-33 concludes with a promise of safety for those who listen to wisdom: "But whoever listens to me will dwell in safety, secure from the fear of evil." This theme underscores the peace and security found in living according to God's wisdom. Prayer Points Pray for Wisdom Ask God to grant you wisdom and understanding in all areas of life, and to help you discern His will. Pray for a Reverent Heart Seek a deeper reverence for God, acknowledging Him as the source of all true knowledge and wisdom. Pray for Guidance Request God’s guidance in choosing the right companions and mentors who will lead you closer to Him. Pray for Obedience Ask for the strength and courage to heed wisdom’s call and to make choices that honor God in every aspect of your life. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can “the fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge” (Proverbs 1:7) be reconciled with scientific inquiry that does not require belief in God? 2. If wisdom is portrayed as calling out in public (Proverbs 1:20–21), what historical or archaeological evidence supports such personification in ancient Israel? 3. Does Proverbs 1:24–28 depict a contradictory image of God ignoring pleas for help, conflicting with portrayals of divine mercy elsewhere in the Bible? 4. Is there any solid historical or literary evidence to confirm Solomon as the author of Proverbs 1, or did later writers compile these teachings under his name? 5. Does the insistence on divine wisdom in Proverbs 1 undermine the value and validity of secular ethics or knowledge sources? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Proverbs 1 describe the purpose of the proverbs? 2. Discuss the importance of 'fearing the Lord' in the context of Proverbs 1. 3. How does the chapter contrast the wise and the foolish? 4. What is the role of parental guidance according to this chapter? 5. Analyze the dangers of following sinners as depicted in verses 10-19. 6. How is Wisdom personified in this chapter? Why do you think this metaphor was used? 7. Discuss the consequences of ignoring Wisdom's call as explained in the chapter. 8. How does Proverbs 1 guide you to differentiate between right and wrong? 9. How can the teachings in Proverbs 1 be applied to modern day situations? 10. In what ways can you practically 'seek wisdom' in your daily life? 11. How does the concept of 'the fear of the Lord' resonate with you personally? 12. How can you encourage others to value wisdom and understanding? 13. In what ways can parents today impart wisdom and discipline as recommended in the chapter? 14. How can we resist the allure of immediate gratification as warned in verses 10-19? 15. How does ignoring wisdom lead to complacency and eventual disaster? 16. Discuss a situation where you or someone you know rejected wisdom and faced the consequences. 17. How can the principles outlined in this chapter guide your decision-making process? 18. What measures can you take to ensure you do not despise wisdom and instruction? 19. How can societies benefit from the collective pursuit of wisdom as encouraged in Proverbs 1? 20. If you were to summarize the teachings of Proverbs 1 in one sentence, what would it be? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions