Tag: Proverbs
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Proverbs 1:10
Verse 10 introduces a new kind of instruction. The address “my child” continues, keeping the parental tone, but the content shifts. This is the first time we see a direct, situational command. Up to this point, the Proverbs have described their purpose (vv. 1–6), established their foundation (v. 7), and given a general call to…
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Proverbs 1:9
Verse 9 builds directly on the instructions in verse 8 and gives the reason behind them. The reader is told to hear and not reject, and now we see why that matters. The instruction of the father and the teaching of the mother are not burdens; they adorn the child. Wisdom is presented as something…
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Proverbs 1:8
Verse 8 seems to mark the beginning of a new section. Up to this point, verses 1–7 read like an introduction, laying out the purpose of the Proverbs and what they offer to the reader. Here, the book shifts into what we typically think of as proverbs: direct, personal instruction. The tone also becomes more…
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Proverbs 1:7
Verse 7 is both the conclusion and foundation of everything that comes before it. Up to this point, the Proverbs have explained their purpose and the benefits they offer. But here, the text answers a deeper question: where does true knowledge actually begin? It begins with the fear of the LORD. This is not fear…
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Proverbs 1:4
“To teach shrewdness to the simple, knowledge and prudence to the young.” Verse four explains that the Proverbs will fundamentally alter the reader through teaching. The simple will become shrewd, and the young will gain knowledge and prudence. Again, verse four is stylistically similar to the previous two verses. The key word here is teach.…
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Proverbs 1:3
“For gaining instruction in wise dealing, righteousness, justice, and equity.” Verse three continues explaining the purpose of the Proverbs. It lists four areas in which the reader can gain instruction: This verse is stylistically similar to verse two. In verse two, the author lists virtues such as wisdom, instruction, and understanding. In verse three, the…
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Proverbs 1:1
Solomon was the second son of the renowned King David. Growing up in the king’s palace, he no doubt saw the difficult, daily, choices that come with living in an environment of politics, power, and prestige. He witnessed the realities of royalty and the tensions surrounding succession. These struggles became very real when his brother…
Warren Carr 