Proverbs is a collection of wisdom sayings designed to teach godly living, moral discernment, and practical skill for everyday life. Rooted in the fear of the Lord, the book contrasts wisdom and folly, righteousness and wickedness, diligence and laziness, humility and pride. Its teachings shape character, guide decisions, and help believers walk in the path of life.
Background
Author: Primarily Solomon, with contributions from Agur, Lemuel, and anonymous wise men
Audience: Israel and all who seek wisdom
Date: 10th century BC for Solomon’s writings, compiled later
Location Written: Israel
Context: Proverbs is part of Israel’s wisdom literature, offering practical guidance for every area of life. The book teaches that wisdom begins with fearing God, and it applies this truth to relationships, work, money, speech, integrity, family, and leadership. Its short, memorable sayings were crafted to train young people and instruct communities in living with moral clarity.
Characters
- Solomon — primary author imparting God-given wisdom
- Wise Son / Disciple — learner called to embrace wisdom and avoid folly
- Lady Wisdom — personification of God’s wisdom calling people to life
- Lady Folly — personification of temptation leading to destruction
- The Lord — source of wisdom, righteousness, and true understanding
- The Righteous and the Wicked — contrasting groups shaped by their choices
Major Events
- Foundational call to fear the Lord as the beginning of wisdom (Chapter 1)
- Parental appeals urging a young person to pursue wisdom (Chapters 1–9)
- Sayings of Solomon contrasting wise and foolish behavior (Chapters 10–22)
- Thirty sayings of the wise offering practical guidance (Chapters 22–24)
- Additional proverbs of Solomon collected by Hezekiah’s men (Chapters 25–29)
- Wisdom from Agur and the reflections of King Lemuel (Chapters 30–31)
- The virtuous woman as a model of wisdom in action (Chapter 31)
Application & Life Lessons
- The fear of the Lord is the foundation of true wisdom
- Wise choices lead to life, while foolishness leads to destruction
- Integrity and honesty honor God and build trust
- Words carry power and must be used with restraint and wisdom
- Hard work and diligence bring stability and provision
- Pride leads to downfall, but humility brings honor
- God’s wisdom applies to every area of daily life
- Seeking wisdom is a lifelong pursuit that requires teachability
Bible Study Videos
Video by the Bible Project providing an overview of Proverbs
Sermons & Teachings
Sermon by Skip Heitzig offering a brief overview of Proverbs
Podcasts
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Articles
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Bible Reading Plans
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Books
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Disclosures & Notices
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