What does Proverbs 8:2 mean?
In this verse Solomon depicts poetic locations where wisdom, personified in a woman, calls out. The questions asked in the prior verse imply that wisdom's call is not hidden (Proverbs 8:1). That idea is highlighted here: she takes up her position where people travel and congregate. Whether people travel over hilltops or meet at intersections, they cannot fail to hear her call.Similarly, the gospel's call to salvation reaches people where they are. The hills are part of the creation that God has established as a witness to His existence and wisdom. In Psalm 8:1 David exclaimed, "O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!" Romans 1:19–20 points out that creation offers sufficient evidence that God exists and reveals His eternal power and divine nature. Having rejected the witness of creation, unbelievers are without excuse. Today, too, the gospel calls upon people in the hill country and in the busy intersections to believe on Jesus, the source of wisdom.
For some in nations with a Christian heritage, anyone who has a radio can hear the call of the gospel wherever he may be.
Proverbs 8:1–11 comes immediately after a potent warning about a promiscuous, seductive woman. Here, Solomon again presents a woman, this time as wisdom personified (Proverbs 1:20). She calls from everywhere to men to learn prudence and sense. She cites the value of learning from her. Her words are noble, right, true, righteous, and honest. Wisdom is far greater than silver, choice gold, jewels, and everything else that can be compared with her.
In this passage, wisdom is once again imagined as a woman who cries out to be heard (Proverbs 1:20–21). Wisdom extols her own truth and value. Wisdom was part of God's creative power long before even the creation of the universe. The chapter again returns to the many benefits of godly wisdom, before completing those declarations at the start of the next chapter.
