Proverbs 7 Commentary

These are the proverbs of Solomon, one of the most renowned kings in the history of Israel. The word translated “proverb” is the Hebrew word “mashal.” The root of the word contains the idea of “compare”—it is translated throughout Scripture as “parable” just as often as “proverb.”

This gives us some insight into the nature of these sayings. Proverbs are not prescriptions. It is not about a formula for how to manipulate circumstances and bend them to our will. That might be wishful thinking, but doesn’t work in reality. The proverbs are, in a sense, “comparing” our human perceptions to the reality of God’s world; trying to connect the two by providing principles that shape our perspective and inform our choices such that we live constructively—that is to say, wisely.

Like parables, the proverbs are meant to guide us “to wisdom”, that is, into a way of living. A way of thinking and perceiving. It is about molding and shaping our perceptions, values, and character into something that is consistently in tune with God, not just as a rule-follower but as someone who understands and practices the essence of the divine. One who sees the world through God’s eyes, and acts accordingly.

Ecclesiastes might be thought of as a philosophical foundation for wisdom. It shows the way to properly view the many aspects of life we cannot control, the “hebel” or vaporous nature of all that surrounds us. The main thing Ecclesiastes shows us is the importance of choosing to trust God, and make good choices based on that trust.

Proverbs will reiterate the philosophical foundations of Ecclesiastes, then zoom in and expand upon the practical application of trusting God and choosing a true perspective within certain areas of life. Proverbs leads us to choose a true perspective in all areas of life, and creates a foundation from which we can choose actions that are constructive, beneficial, and fulfilling.

There are only three things we control in life: who we trust, our perspective, and what we do—our actions. Ecclesiastes makes this reality abundantly clear. Trying to control what we cannot leads to complete futility. Trusting God, however, provides a foundation for constructive living. Proverbs teaches us how best to steward the choices we have—how to trust God, how to choose His perspective, and the key actions to take that lead us to the path of wisdom.

Throughout the first seven chapters, Solomon addresses his audience as “my son” to invoke a familial bond. He takes a new strategy in chapters 8-18. In this last of the “my son” chapters, Solomon reminds the reader that intimacy is needed to make wisdom a true path in our lives.

He uses other familial language—father, mother, sister, friend—to show the close relationship we need to have with wisdom. He reminds us of some of his most frequent pleadings, such as “write it on the tablet of your heart,” to emphasize how important and all-encompassing wisdom needs to be in our lives.

As Chapter 7 unfolds, Solomon tells a mini-drama about a hypothetical naïve youth. The kind that make up his primary audience. The story is a parable, meant to be read as a cautionary tale.

In one of the most honest, straightforward, and terrifying illustrations of seduction throughout all of Scripture, Solomon tells a story about a young man he watched “from his window.” This young man could be anyone. Solomon watches as the young man first decides to linger in the area of the adulteress. Then Solomon watches as she works her deception on him quickly and to devastating effect.

The Bible Project - Proverbs Summary