The Beginning of Knowledge and Wisdom

The book of Proverbs is not a narrative; it is instructional. This lesson will provide critical points from that instruction, but you are always encouraged to read the suggested "Bible Readings" to gain even more insight.

Wise Words

Proverbs begins with an introduction to the purposes of the book. The main purpose of Proverbs is to provide instructions for wisely dealing with others, living a righteous life, living a just life, and living a fair life. Proverbs are meant to provide knowledge and assist people in making good choices. Proverbs 1:7 (ESV®) says that the "fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction."

An Appeal to Be Wise

The first third of Proverbs is a series of advice from a father (Solomon, the author of Proverbs) to his son. The same advice applies to us as the readers of Proverbs. One important instruction is for each of us to listen to our father and mother. Proverbs also instructs us not to listen to people who sin. If these people try to get us to harm someone in order to gain riches, we are to get away from them because their downfall will eventually come.

Be Wise

Wisdom cries out to be heard. How long will people enjoy being ignorant? How long will ignorant people love ignorance and hate wisdom? The ones that reject God's wisdom will fall into disaster. Solomon warns that those who reject knowledge will be filled with ignorance.  God's wisdom must be sought after. It is not freely given. In fact, wisdom should be searched for, just like seeking silver and gold. Wisdom is valuable and must be dug up like treasure. The ignorant seek out other things, but this will destroy them. The knowledge that God gives will keep people safe.

Wisdom Is a Treasure

God gives wisdom. He stores wisdom up for those that seek it. Knowing the difference between good and evil will protect the wise during their lifetimes. It will keep away those that enjoy evil. Wisdom will shield the wise from the people that will try to tempt them to do wrong. Solomon instructs his son: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths" (Proverbs 3:5-6). If you give to God first, then you will have many treasures. Accept God's discipline. God only disciplines those that He loves.

The Finder of Wisdom Is Blessed

The one that finds wisdom will be richly blessed. Wisdom is better than silver or gold. Wisdom can give a long life, riches, and honor. When one can do good to those who deserve it, one should do good. Good should be given out freely, and those needing help should receive it immediately.

The Curse of the Wicked

Do not plan evil against neighbors. Do not cause problems with people without reason. Do not envy violent people. Evil people are an abomination to God. God loves the honest person. He curses the wicked and lives with the righteous. Wise men and women will get the honor, but fools will be shamed.

A Father's Advice to His Son

The father (Solomon) tells his son that he should not forget his father's teaching. He also says that he has been instructing his son to obey his commandments since the boy was young. He tells his son that he has taught him well, and to acquire wisdom and not follow evil. The father warns his son that forbidden women will try to entice him and to stay far away from such women.

The father cautions his son that if he becomes lazy, he will be poor. Other advice the father gives is to be honest in any dealings with others, and that worthless people tell lies. He warns his son against the ways of an adulteress and how she will lead him to destruction. Her ways will be the ways of death. Solomon tells his son that the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom.

Summary

This section of Proverbs is a father's advice to his son to be wise. He cautions his son about the dangers of admiring evil men and warns his son about adulteresses that will destroy him. The father tells his son that the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom.

Application and Reflection

Application

The advice given in Proverbs still applies today. It would be wise to read the advice in Proverbs and use it in your own life.

Reflection

After reading this advice, have you thought about how it may apply to your own life?