잠언 Chapter 1

Translation: ESV

1

The proverbs of Solomon, son of David, king of Israel:

Key Message

The book of Proverbs is a comprehensive collection of God-centered life wisdom, proclaimed under royal authority.

▸The book of Proverbs is a collection of wisdom literature gathered under the authority of King Solomon.

The book of Proverbs is a collection of wisdom literature gathered under the authority of King Solomon. 'Proverbs' (mishle) means comparisons, sayings, and parables in Hebrew, containing not merely practical life wisdom but the comprehensive principles of a life lived in the fear of God. Solomon is said to have spoken 3,000 proverbs (1 Kings 4:32), and this book collects their essence.

Related Verses

He also spoke 3,000 proverbs, and his songs were 1,005.
2

To know wisdom and instruction, to understand words of insight,

Key Message

The book of Proverbs is written to develop, through wisdom, instruction, and insight, the capacity to live rightly before God.

▸Verses 2-6 are the prologue declaring the purpose of the entire book of Proverbs.

7

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

Key Message

The fear of the LORD is the starting point of all true knowledge and wisdom; one who rejects this relationship cannot attain true wisdom.

▸This verse is the motto declaring the central theme of the entire book of Proverbs.

8

Hear, my son, your father's instruction, and forsake not your mother's teaching,

Key Message

The wise life begins with listening to and following parental instruction.

▸The address 'my son' recurs throughout Proverbs 1-9, taking the form of intimate instruction from a teacher to a student, or a father to a son.

10

My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent.

Key Message

The wise person firmly refuses the enticements of evildoers no matter how attractive they may appear.

▸Those who choose the path of wisdom will inevitably face the temptation of evildoers.

20

Wisdom cries aloud in the street, in the markets she raises her voice;

Key Message

Wisdom is not a secret for those who seek it alone; it is a universal invitation that cries out publicly to everyone.

▸In the latter part of chapter 1 (vv.

33

but whoever listens to me will dwell secure and will be at ease, without dread of disaster.

Key Message

The fruit of following wisdom is true peace and security, given within a right relationship with God.

▸Chapter 1 ends with the promise given to those who follow wisdom.