Proverbs Chapter 1 — The Purpose of Wisdom
King Solomon introduces the purpose of the proverbs and warns against following the path of the wicked while personifying wisdom as calling out to the simple.
1The proverbs of Solomon, the son of David, king of Israel:
2to know wisdom and instruction;
3to receive instruction in wise dealing,
4to give prudence to the simple,
5that the wise man may hear, and increase in learning;
6to understand a proverb and parables,
7The fear of the LORD*When rendered in ALL CAPITAL LETTERS, “LORD” or “GOD” is the translation of God’s Proper Name (Hebrew “יהוה”, usually pronounced Yahweh). is the beginning of knowledge,
8My son, listen to your father’s instruction,
9for they will be a garland to grace your head,
10My son, if sinners entice you,
11If they say, “Come with us.
12Let’s swallow them up alive like Sheol,†Sheol is the place of the dead.
13We’ll find all valuable wealth.
14You shall cast your lot among us.
15my son, don’t walk on the path with them.
16for their feet run to evil.
17For the net is spread in vain in the sight of any bird;
18but these lay in wait for their own blood.
19So are the ways of everyone who is greedy for gain.
20Wisdom calls aloud in the street.
21She calls at the head of noisy places.
22“How long, you simple ones, will you love simplicity?
23Turn at my reproof.
24Because I have called, and you have refused;
25but you have ignored all my counsel,
26I also will laugh at your disaster.
27when calamity overtakes you like a storm,
28Then they will call on me, but I will not answer.
29because they hated knowledge,
30They wanted none of my counsel.
31Therefore they will eat of the fruit of their own way,
32For the backsliding of the simple will kill them.
33But whoever listens to me will dwell securely,
WEB Translation
Notable Verses
Proverbs 1:7
“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
This verse establishes the foundational theme for the entire book of Proverbs.
Proverbs 1:10
“My son, if sinners entice you, don’t consent.”
It introduces a practical and moral warning against being led astray by peer pressure and greed.
Proverbs 1:20
“Wisdom calls aloud in the street. She calls at the head of noisy places.”
This marks the introduction of Wisdom as a personified figure seeking to guide humanity.
Chapter Summary
Proverbs Chapter 1 begins by identifying Solomon as the author and establishing the purpose of the book: to provide instruction, wisdom, and understanding for both the simple and the wise. A central theme is introduced: that the fear of the LORD is the foundation of knowledge. The chapter contains a fatherly warning to a son, advising him to reject the enticements of sinners who seek to gain wealth through violence and greed. Following this, Wisdom is personified as a woman calling out in public places, urging the simple to turn from their ways and listen to her counsel. She warns that those who ignore her will face calamity and receive no answer when they finally call for help. The chapter concludes by contrasting the fate of those who reject wisdom with the security found by those who listen to her and dwell in safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
The chapter serves as an introduction to the book, stating its proverbs are intended to give prudence to the simple and increase learning for the wise. It establishes that true knowledge begins with a proper reverence for God.
The text identifies the author as Solomon, the son of David and king of Israel. Solomon was historically renowned for his God-given wisdom and literary contributions.
In this context, it refers to a deep respect, awe, and submission to God's authority. It is presented as the essential starting point for gaining true wisdom and understanding.
Wisdom is depicted as a woman calling out in the streets and public squares. She warns people to listen to her counsel and describes the negative consequences for those who choose to ignore her.
Study Note
The use of 'Wisdom' as a personified female figure in verse 20 is a recurring literary device throughout the early chapters of Proverbs.
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