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Purpose and Theme
The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:
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for receiving instruction in prudent behavior, doing what is right and just and fair;
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The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
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Prologue: Exhortations to Embrace Wisdom
Warning Against the Invitation of Sinful Men
Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.
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My son, if sinful men entice you, do not give in to them.
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my son, do not go along with them, do not set foot on their paths;
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But since you refuse to listen when I call and no one pays attention when I stretch out my hand,
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since you disregard all my advice and do not accept my rebuke,
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“Then they will call to me but I will not answer; they will look for me but will not find me,
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since they hated knowledge and did not choose to fear the Lord.
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Since they would not accept my advice and spurned my rebuke,
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then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God.
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He holds success in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless,
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Then you will understand what is right and just and fair—every good path.
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who has left the partner of her youth and ignored the covenant she made before God.
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None who go to her return or attain the paths of life.
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Wisdom Bestows Well-Being
My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart,
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Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.
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Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
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Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil.
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This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones.
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My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline, and do not resent his rebuke,
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for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold.
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She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her.
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Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor.
