-
Purpose and Theme
The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:
-
for receiving instruction in prudent behavior, doing what is right and just and fair;
-
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
-
“How long will you who are simple love your simple ways? How long will mockers delight in mockery and fools hate knowledge?
-
He holds success in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless,
-
Then you will understand what is right and just and fair—every good path.
-
Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.
-
because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.
-
for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold.
-
She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her.
-
Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor.
-
She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her; those who hold her fast will be blessed.
-
Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.
-
The Lord’s curse is on the house of the wicked, but he blesses the home of the righteous.
-
Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you.
-
The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.
-
Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life.
-
The path of the righteous is like the morning sun, shining ever brighter till the full light of day.
-
But the way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do not know what makes them stumble.
-
For the lips of the adulterous woman drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil;
-
but in the end she is bitter as gall, sharp as a double-edged sword.
-
lest you lose your honor to others and your dignity to one who is cruel,
-
A loving doe, a graceful deer— may her breasts satisfy you always, may you ever be intoxicated with her love.
-
For this command is a lamp, this teaching is a light, and correction and instruction are the way to life,
-
So is he who sleeps with another man’s wife; no one who touches her will go unpunished.
