Book of Proverbs (Q4 2021)

 Many who know of the book of Proverbs would think that it only contains proverbs (pithy sayings chock-full of wisdom) because of its title. The proverb is the most pervasive and distinctive genre in the book, but the book of Proverbs is written in more than one literary form. Its first nine chapters consist of discourses that include a father's reflections on wisdom and a personification of wisdom. Following the discourses are proverbial observations, advice, insights, and warnings that make up the main portion of the book. The book ends with a lecture and an acrostic poem praising the noble wife. Proverbs taught the Israelites how fearing the Lord should shape their everyday living. Its practical lessons continue to be indispensable for believers today who desire to glorify God by walking the path of wisdom in a world characterised by folly.