Title and Author: The book of Proverbs is traditionally attributed to King Solomon, renowned for his wisdom. The title "Proverbs" comes from the Hebrew word "Míshlê," meaning "parables" or "sayings." Solomon is credited with writing the majority of the proverbs, although other contributors include Agur (Proverbs 30) and King Lemuel (Proverbs 31).

Historical Context: Proverbs was written during the reign of Solomon, around the 10th century BC, a period marked by peace and prosperity in Israel. This era allowed for the flourishing of wisdom literature, as the nation was not preoccupied with warfare or survival.

Audience: The primary audience of Proverbs was the people of Israel, particularly young men who were being groomed for leadership and responsibility. However, its teachings are universal and timeless, applicable to all who seek wisdom.

Purpose: The purpose of Proverbs is to impart wisdom, discipline, and understanding. It aims to guide individuals in living a life that is pleasing to God, characterized by righteousness, justice, and equity (Proverbs 1:2-3).

Genre and Style: Proverbs is a collection of wisdom literature, characterized by short, pithy sayings and poetic parallelism. It uses metaphors and similes to convey deep truths.1. Solomon (Proverbs 1:1)
- Solomon is the son of David, king of Israel, and the primary author of the Proverbs. He is renowned for his wisdom, which he imparts through these sayings.

2. The Wise (Proverbs 1:5)
- The wise are those who seek knowledge and understanding, heeding instruction and growing in wisdom.

3. The Fool (Proverbs 1:7)
- The fool despises wisdom and discipline, often making poor choices and rejecting knowledge.

4. The Simple (Proverbs 1:22)
- The simple are naive and lack discernment, easily swayed and in need of guidance.

5. The Scoffer (Proverbs 1:22)
- The scoffer mocks wisdom and is resistant to correction, often leading others astray.

6. The Wicked (Proverbs 2:22)
- The wicked are those who engage in evil deeds, rejecting righteousness and leading lives contrary to God's ways.

7. The Righteous (Proverbs 3:33)
- The righteous live in accordance with God's laws, seeking justice and integrity.

8. The Sluggard (Proverbs 6:6)
- The sluggard is lazy and avoids work, often leading to poverty and lack.

9. The Adulteress (Proverbs 6:24)
- The adulteress is a seductive figure who leads others into infidelity and moral downfall.

10. The Father (Proverbs 1:8)
- The father is a figure of authority and guidance, imparting wisdom and instruction to his children.

11. The Mother (Proverbs 1:8)
- The mother, like the father, provides instruction and guidance, nurturing her children in wisdom.

12. The Neighbor (Proverbs 3:28)
- The neighbor is a fellow community member, with whom one should live in peace and fairness.

13. The Friend (Proverbs 17:17)
- The friend is loyal and supportive, offering love and assistance in times of need.

14. The King (Proverbs 16:10)
- The king is a ruler who should govern with justice and wisdom, reflecting God's authority.

15. The Poor (Proverbs 19:1)
- The poor are those who lack material wealth but may possess integrity and wisdom.

16. The Rich (Proverbs 18:23)
- The rich have material wealth, which can lead to both positive and negative outcomes depending on their character.1. The Streets (Proverbs 1:20)
- Description: The streets are depicted as places where wisdom calls out to the people, urging them to heed her advice. This is a metaphorical representation of wisdom being accessible to all who are willing to listen.
- Verse: "Wisdom calls out in the street, she lifts her voice in the square."

2. The Square (Proverbs 1:20)
- Description: Similar to the streets, the square is a public place where wisdom makes her presence known. It symbolizes the availability of wisdom in everyday life.
- Verse: "Wisdom calls out in the street, she lifts her voice in the square."

3. The House of the Strange Woman (Proverbs 7:8)
- Description: This location is used metaphorically to warn against the dangers of succumbing to temptation and immorality. It represents a place of seduction and moral downfall.
- Verse: "crossing the street near her corner, strolling down the road to her house."

4. The Heights Overlooking the City (Proverbs 9:3)
- Description: This location is where wisdom has built her house and prepared a feast, inviting the simple to gain understanding. It symbolizes a place of enlightenment and learning.
- Verse: "She has sent out her maidservants; she calls out from the heights overlooking the city."

5. The House of the Righteous (Proverbs 12:7)
- Description: This is a symbolic location representing stability, security, and the enduring nature of a life built on righteousness.
- Verse: "The wicked are overthrown and perish, but the house of the righteous will stand."

6. The House of the Wicked (Proverbs 14:11)
- Description: In contrast to the house of the righteous, this location symbolizes instability and eventual destruction due to wickedness.
- Verse: "The house of the wicked will be destroyed, but the tent of the upright will flourish."

7. The Path of the Righteous (Proverbs 4:18)
- Description: This is a metaphorical path representing the journey of a life lived in accordance with wisdom and righteousness, characterized by increasing clarity and understanding.
- Verse: "The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining brighter and brighter until midday."

8. The Path of the Wicked (Proverbs 4:19)
- Description: This path symbolizes a life of moral darkness and confusion, leading to downfall and destruction.
- Verse: "But the way of the wicked is like the darkest gloom; they do not know what makes them stumble."1. The Purpose of Proverbs (1:1-7)
The book begins by stating its purpose: to impart wisdom, discipline, and understanding. It emphasizes the importance of fearing the Lord as the foundation of knowledge.

2. Warnings Against Enticement (1:8-19)
Solomon advises his son to heed parental instruction and warns against being enticed by sinners who seek to do harm for personal gain.

3. The Call of Wisdom (1:20-33)
Wisdom is personified as a woman calling out in public places, urging people to heed her advice and warning of the consequences of ignoring her.

4. The Benefits of Wisdom (2:1-22)
This section highlights the rewards of seeking wisdom, such as understanding righteousness and justice, and protection from evil paths.

5. Trust in the Lord (3:1-12)
Solomon advises trusting in the Lord with all one's heart and not relying solely on one's understanding. He promises health and prosperity for those who do.

6. Blessings of Wisdom (3:13-26)
Wisdom is described as more valuable than silver or gold, bringing long life, peace, and security to those who find it.

7. Admonition to Kindness and Integrity (3:27-35)
Instructions are given to act kindly and justly towards others, avoiding envy and violence.

8. The Value of Wisdom (4:1-9)
Solomon recounts his father's teachings, emphasizing the supreme value of wisdom and understanding.

9. Avoiding the Path of the Wicked (4:10-19)
A warning is given to avoid the path of the wicked and to stay on the path of the righteous, which leads to light and life.

10. Guarding the Heart (4:20-27)
Emphasis is placed on guarding one's heart, as it is the wellspring of life, and maintaining integrity in speech and actions.

11. Warning Against Adultery (5:1-23)
Solomon warns against the allure of an adulterous woman, highlighting the destructive consequences of infidelity.

12. Dangers of Laziness and Folly (6:6-11)
The ant is used as an example of diligence, and a warning is given against laziness, which leads to poverty.

13. Seven Things the Lord Hates (6:16-19)
A list of seven detestable things is provided, including haughty eyes, lying tongues, and sowing discord among brothers.

14. The Allure and Folly of Adultery (7:1-27)
A vivid depiction of a young man led astray by an adulterous woman, illustrating the dangers of succumbing to temptation.

15. The Excellence of Wisdom (8:1-36)
Wisdom is personified again, extolling her virtues and role in creation, and inviting all to seek her.

16. The Way of Wisdom and Folly (9:1-18)
Wisdom and folly are contrasted as two women inviting people to their respective houses, symbolizing the choice between life and death.

17. Proverbs of Solomon (10:1-22:16)
A collection of individual proverbs covering various aspects of life, including righteousness, diligence, speech, and relationships.

18. Sayings of the Wise (22:17-24:22)
A series of sayings attributed to wise men, offering practical advice on behavior, justice, and relationships.

19. Further Sayings of the Wise (24:23-34)
Additional wise sayings focusing on justice, honesty, and the consequences of laziness.

20. Proverbs of Solomon Collected by Hezekiah’s Men (25:1-29:27)
More proverbs attributed to Solomon, collected during King Hezekiah's reign, covering leadership, self-control, and social behavior.

21. Sayings of Agur (30:1-33)
A collection of sayings by Agur, reflecting on human limitations and the pursuit of wisdom.

22. Sayings of King Lemuel (31:1-9)
Advice given to King Lemuel by his mother, focusing on leadership, justice, and avoiding excess.

23. The Wife of Noble Character (31:10-31)
A poem describing the virtues of an ideal wife, highlighting her industriousness, wisdom, and fear of the Lord.1. Wisdom and Knowledge (Proverbs 1:2)
- Proverbs emphasizes the importance of acquiring wisdom and understanding as foundational to a successful and righteous life. Wisdom is portrayed as a guiding principle that leads to good judgment and decision-making.
- "To know wisdom and discipline, to comprehend the words of insight," (Proverbs 1:2).

2. The Fear of the Lord (Proverbs 1:7)
- The fear of the Lord is presented as the beginning of knowledge and wisdom. It signifies a deep respect and reverence for God, which is essential for moral and spiritual understanding.
- "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline." (Proverbs 1:7).

3. The Contrast Between the Wise and the Foolish (Proverbs 1:22)
- Proverbs frequently contrasts the behaviors and outcomes of the wise versus the foolish. The wise are those who seek understanding and live righteously, while fools reject wisdom and suffer the consequences.
- "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).

4. The Value of Righteousness (Proverbs 2:7)
- Righteousness is highly valued in Proverbs, often associated with integrity, justice, and moral uprightness. It is depicted as a path that leads to life and favor from God.
- "He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk with integrity," (Proverbs 2:7).

5. The Dangers of Adultery and Immorality (Proverbs 2:16)
- Proverbs warns against the seductive nature of adultery and sexual immorality, highlighting the destructive consequences of such actions on individuals and families.
- "It will rescue you from the forbidden woman, from the stranger with seductive words," (Proverbs 2:16).

6. The Power of Words (Proverbs 10:19)
- The book underscores the impact of words, advocating for careful and thoughtful speech. Words have the power to build up or destroy, and wise individuals use them judiciously.
- "When words are many, sin is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise." (Proverbs 10:19).

7. The Importance of Diligence and Hard Work (Proverbs 10:4)
- Diligence and hard work are praised as virtues that lead to prosperity and success, while laziness is condemned as leading to poverty and ruin.
- "Idle hands make one poor, but diligent hands bring wealth." (Proverbs 10:4).

8. The Role of Discipline and Correction (Proverbs 3:11)
- Discipline and correction are seen as necessary for growth and wisdom. Accepting correction is a sign of wisdom, while rejecting it leads to folly.
- "My son, do not reject the discipline of the LORD, and do not loathe His rebuke," (Proverbs 3:11).

9. The Value of Friendship and Counsel (Proverbs 11:14)
- Proverbs highlights the importance of good friendships and wise counsel. Surrounding oneself with wise and trustworthy friends leads to success and safety.
- "For lack of guidance, a nation falls, but with many counselors comes deliverance." (Proverbs 11:14).

10. The Consequences of Pride and Humility (Proverbs 11:2)
- Pride is depicted as leading to disgrace and downfall, while humility is associated with wisdom and honor. Humility is a key trait of the wise.
- "When pride comes, disgrace follows, but with humility comes wisdom." (Proverbs 11:2).1. Wisdom (Proverbs 8:1-36)
- Description: In Proverbs 8, Wisdom is personified and speaks as a divine attribute. Christians often see this as a representation of Jesus, who is described as the "wisdom of God" in the New Testament (1 Corinthians 1:24). The passage highlights Wisdom's role in creation and its eternal nature, paralleling the Christian belief in Jesus as the eternal Word through whom all things were made.
- Key Verse: "The LORD created me as His first course, before His works of old." (Proverbs 8:22)

2. The Righteous One (Proverbs 10:11)
- Description: Proverbs frequently contrasts the righteous with the wicked. Jesus is often seen as the ultimate Righteous One, embodying perfect righteousness and offering it to believers.
- Key Verse: "The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence." (Proverbs 10:11)

3. The Path of Life (Proverbs 12:28)
- Description: Proverbs speaks of the "path of life" as a way of righteousness and wisdom. Jesus is often identified as the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6), guiding believers on the path to eternal life.
- Key Verse: "There is life in the path of righteousness, but another path leads to death." (Proverbs 12:28)

4. The Tree of Life (Proverbs 3:18)
- Description: Wisdom is described as a "tree of life" to those who embrace it. In Christian theology, Jesus is sometimes seen as the ultimate source of life and spiritual nourishment, akin to the tree of life.
- Key Verse: "She is a tree of life to those who embrace her, and those who lay hold of her are blessed." (Proverbs 3:18)

5. The Friend Who Sticks Closer Than a Brother (Proverbs 18:24)
- Description: This proverb speaks of a friend who is more loyal than a brother. Jesus is often seen as this ultimate friend, offering a relationship that surpasses all others in loyalty and love.
- Key Verse: "A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who stays closer than a brother." (Proverbs 18:24)1. Prophecy of the Consequences of Wickedness:
- Proverb: "The wicked man earns an empty wage, but he who sows righteousness reaps a true reward." (Proverbs 11:18)
- Fulfillment: This principle is often observed in life where those who engage in wickedness may gain temporary benefits, but ultimately face negative consequences, while those who act righteously find lasting rewards.

2. Prophecy of the Value of Wisdom:
- Proverb: "For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will delight your soul." (Proverbs 2:10)
- Fulfillment: Individuals who seek wisdom and knowledge often find fulfillment and joy in their lives, as wisdom guides them in making sound decisions.

3. Prophecy of the Power of Words:
- Proverb: "The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit." (Proverbs 18:21)
- Fulfillment: This is evident in how words can build up or destroy relationships, influence others, and shape one's destiny.

4. Prophecy of the Importance of Diligence:
- Proverb: "The hand of the diligent will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor." (Proverbs 12:24)
- Fulfillment: Diligent individuals often rise to positions of leadership and success, while those who are lazy may find themselves struggling.

5. Prophecy of the Blessings of Generosity:
- Proverb: "One gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds what is right, only to become poor." (Proverbs 11:24)
- Fulfillment: Generous people often find themselves blessed in return, whether through relationships, opportunities, or personal satisfaction.

1. The Beginning of Knowledge  ( 1:1⁠–⁠7 )

2. The Way of Wisdom  ( 1:8⁠–⁠9:18 )

a. Appeals and Warnings  ( 1:8⁠–⁠33 )

i. The Enticement of Sin  ( 1:8⁠–⁠19 )

ii. Wisdom Calls Aloud  ( 1:20⁠–⁠33 )

b. Wisdom  ( 2:1⁠–⁠4:27 )

i. The Benefits of Wisdom  ( 2:1⁠–⁠22 )

ii. Trust in the LORD with All Your Heart  ( 3:1⁠–⁠12 )

iii. The Blessings of Wisdom  ( 3:13⁠–⁠35 )

iv. A Father’s Instruction  ( 4:1⁠–⁠27 )

c. Folly  ( 5:1⁠–⁠7:27 )

i. Avoiding Immorality  ( 5:1⁠–⁠23 )

ii. Warnings against Foolishness  ( 6:1⁠–⁠19 )

iii. Warnings against Adultery  ( 6:20⁠–⁠35 )

iv. Warning about the Adulteress  ( 7:1⁠–⁠27 )

d. Appeals to Wisdom  ( 8:1⁠–⁠9:18 )

i. The Excellence of Wisdom  ( 8:1⁠–⁠36 )

ii. The Way of Wisdom  ( 9:1⁠–⁠12 )

iii. The Way of Folly  ( 9:13⁠–⁠18 )

3. Solomon's Proverbs  ( 10:1⁠–⁠22:16 )

a. The Wise Son  ( 10:1⁠–⁠32 )

b. Dishonest Scales  ( 11:1⁠–⁠31 )

c. Loving Discipline and Knowledge  ( 12:1⁠–⁠28 )

d. A Father’s Discipline  ( 13:1⁠–⁠25 )

e. The Wise Woman  ( 14:1⁠–⁠35 )

f. A Gentle Answer Turns Away Wrath  ( 15:1⁠–⁠33 )

g. The Reply of the Tongue Is from the LORD  ( 16:1⁠–⁠33 )

h. Better a Dry Morsel in Quietness  ( 17:1⁠–⁠28 )

i. The Selfishness of the Unfriendly  ( 18:1⁠–⁠24 )

j. The Man of Integrity  ( 19:1⁠–⁠29 )

k. Wine is a Mocker  ( 20:1⁠–⁠30 )

l. The King’s Heart  ( 21:1⁠–⁠31 )

m. A Good Name  ( 22:1⁠–⁠16 )

4. Thirty Sayings of the Wise  ( 22:17⁠–⁠24:22 )

5. Further Sayings of the Wise  ( 24:23⁠–⁠34 )

6. Hezekiah's Collection of Solomon's Proverbs  ( 25:1—29:27 )

7. The Words of Agur  ( 30:1⁠–⁠33 )

8. The Sayings of King Lemuel  ( 31:1⁠–⁠9 )

9. The Virtues of a Noble Woman  ( 31:10⁠–⁠31 )