Proverbs

Webster’s dictionary defines a proverb as a brief epigram or maxim. In the Ignatius Bible RSVCE a proverb is described as “a typical form of expression in a society that depended to a large extent on oral tradition. Each saying expressed in pithy and memorable form some important truth.” Many of these proverbs were attributed to Solomon, but all of the book was divinely inspired.

The Proverbs starts thus (1: 2-7):

That men may know wisdom and instruction, understand words of insight, receive instruction in wise dealing, righteousness, justice, and equity; that prudence may be given to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the youth – the wise man also may hear and increase in learning, and the man of understanding acquire skill, to understand a proverb and a figure, the words of the wise and their riddles.

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.

The Ignatius Bible goes on to say, “The general subject of the proverbs is the art of right living… They are not simply maxims of natural wisdom but presuppose a background of revealed religion and inculcate its principles. Religion is in fact regarded as the basis of all morality.”

The Proverbs certainly deserves to be read in its entirety, but it’s also profitable to open it anywhere and read a few verses from any chapter. Be a friend to Wisdom and not to Folly.