Proverbs 1 Commentary

Solomon begins The Book of Proverbs by establishing the authority from which he writes. He then fires off a set of clauses that set up the purpose of life and the intent behind the book.

Wisdom is not something we can do by ourselves. We need the help and instruction of others and, most importantly, a trust and dependence on God.

The Wisdom of God is not the only voice vying for our perspective and trust. Sin calls us toward the path of foolishness, a perversion of the good for which God intends.

The Book of Proverbs is committed to explaining the reality of how life works. Solomon does this by discussing the ineffectiveness and danger of foolishness.

Wisdom (personified as a woman) shouts in public, beckoning all to hear and obey.

Lady Wisdom warns of the reality that some will continue to ignore her calling. This results in a myriad of undesirable consequences.

Lady Wisdom warns that trying evil for a time and/or using wisdom only for circumstantial change is not going to work. But the faithful will discover security and peace, no matter their circumstances.