The Book of Proverbs
True wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord and shapes everyday life.
- Author
- Mainly Solomon, with Agur, Lemuel and others
- Date
- c. 950โ700 BC
- Chapters
- 31
- Genre
- Poetry & Wisdom
Summary
Proverbs is a collection of wise sayings meant to train readers in skilful, godly living. It opens with a father's appeals to his son to embrace wisdom rather than folly, picturing wisdom as a woman calling in the streets.
The short proverbs that follow speak to work, money, friendship, speech, family, anger and justice. The book closes with the portrait of a capable, God-fearing woman. Its foundation is clear: "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge."
Outline
- Chapters 1โ9 โ The call of wisdom
- Chapters 10โ24 โ Proverbs of Solomon
- Chapters 25โ29 โ More proverbs of Solomon
- Chapters 30โ31 โ Sayings of Agur and Lemuel; the noble wife
Key Themes
Key Verses
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
Start reading ProverbsAbove all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.