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Proverbs 1

33 verses

TL;DR

Proverbs 1 introduces Solomon’s wisdom, warns against the peril of following fools, and urges the reader to embrace the fear of the LORD for true knowledge.

Summary

The chapter opens with Solomon declaring the purpose of his proverbs: to impart wisdom, instruction, justice, and discernment. He exhorts his son to heed parental guidance and avoid the company of sinners who entice others into violence and deceit for personal gain. The text then personifies Wisdom as a woman calling out in streets and gates, condemning those who mock her and reject her counsel. She warns that those who turn away from wisdom will bring ruin upon themselves, while those who listen will find safety and peace. The passage concludes by asserting that the fear of the LORD is the foundation of knowledge and that fools, by despising instruction, will ultimately suffer.

Outline
  1. Introduction: Solomon’s purpose for wisdom
  2. Parental counsel: avoiding sinful companions
  3. Wisdom’s voice: call and consequences
Themes
Fear of the LORD as foundationRejection of wisdom leads to ruinContrast of wisdom vs. folly
Keywords
wisdominstructionknowledgefear of the LORDfoolsimplecounselreproofvictimizationprotection
People
Solomon
Places
Israelcitystreetsgates
Things
Wisdom (personified)fear of the LORDinstructioncounselknowledgefoolishness
Key Verses
  • Proverbs 1:7: Establishes the fear of the LORD as the beginning of knowledge and the folly of despising wisdom.
  • Proverbs 1:20-33: Illustrates Wisdom’s proclamation in public places and the consequences of ignoring her.
Questions
  • What does the 'fear of the LORD' mean in this context?
  • How does the chapter portray the consequences of following foolish people?
  • Why does Wisdom choose public places like streets and gates to speak?
  • In what ways can a believer heed Wisdom’s call today?
Sentiment

mixed
The text warns of danger and folly (negative) while offering hope through wisdom and the fear of the LORD (positive).