Proverbs 1:1 - Printer Friendly

ESV: The proverbs of Solomon, son of David, king of Israel:

NIV: The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:

NASB: The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel:

CSB: The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:

NLT: These are the proverbs of Solomon, David’s son, king of Israel.

KJV: The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel;

NKJV: The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel:

This verse specifically identifies Solomon, David's son and legitimate heir to the throne, as the author of the book of Proverbs. This is important because of God's promise to David, found in 2 Samuel 7:11–16. Through Nathan the prophet, God made three promises to David. First, that his son, Solomon, would build the Temple of God (2 Samuel 7:13). Second, that his son would turn away from Him, but that God would discipline him as a father and not remove His love from him (2 Samuel 7:14–15). And third, that David's house would be established forever (2 Samuel 7:16). This final promise is a Messianic prophecy, but is still a very important part of Solomon's lineage.

Solomon was given incredible intelligence and wisdom by God (1 Kings 3:1–15; 2 Chronicles 1:7–13). Unfortunately, though wisdom is the capacity to do right, Solomon didn't always choose correctly. The book of Ecclesiastes details some of his experiences, and his discovery that God's ways really are the best ways after all.

Proverbs 1:1–7 outlines the four distinct ''to'' statements, or purpose statements of the book of Proverbs. This section culminates with the identification of the only source of true wisdom, the Lord Himself. The purpose of the book of Proverbs is to recognize wise instruction and apply knowledge wisely. Most importantly, this all begins with a reverent fear of the Lord and the rejection of foolish ways.

Proverbs Chapter 1 provides a clear description of the purpose of the book. It is stated plainly who wrote the book, the lineage of Solomon, and to whom he was writing. Solomon gives four distinct purpose statements in the opening verses. The essence of these is to explain why he is writing the book as well as the source of his inspiration. Solomon concludes with a warning against sinfulness and a personal plea for his children to act wisely.

Proverbs Chapter 1 is clearly born out of Solomon’s life history. Solomon held himself back from no earthly pleasure, he had everything he could ever desire, and in the end he saw the foolishness of his actions. Chapter 1 is Solomon’s reflection on his own life, how he had all the wisdom of God available to him, and yet chose to follow after foolish desires. Other chapters detail the advice which this experience allows Solomon to give.

Proverbs is best understood in context with the books of Ecclesiastes and Job. In Proverbs, “wisdom” is given in short, simple, general terms. Ecclesiastes represents wisdom based on observation and experience. This often shows how the general principles of the book of Proverbs don’t apply in absolutely every circumstance. Job represents wisdom based on the experience of suffering and injustice. All three come to the conclusion that God does indeed know best, and the most sensible course of action is to follow His will.

Accessed 12/3/2024 12:20:52 PM