Verse 7 concludes the introduction to the book of Proverbs. This verse is the cornerstone of the entire book. Solomon is making an absolute statement, against any knowledge that takes precedence over the Lord. The use of "fear," in this context, is not meant to imply a sense of horror, despair, or fright. It is a strong term, for sure. Here, it points more towards a sense of extreme respect. This is the sense in which mature adults "fear" things like fire, knives, or chemicals. It's not panic and terror, but does come with a suggestion of consequences. According to the Bible, true knowledge cannot exist without a reverent "fear" of God.

Certainly there are many very intelligent individuals who do not follow God, so this statement can seem contradictory. In the original Hebrew phrasing, "the beginning" does not point to knowledge, but instead belongs with the "fear of the Lord." The same phrase can be more literally translated as "giving priority to." In this context, the term "beginning" means the chief place in time, space, and order. The contention here is not that one cannot obtain knowledge apart from God. Instead, this implies that knowledge is out of place apart from the fear of the Lord.

Knowledge itself can become an idol and take the chief place in one's life (Romans 1:22). Solomon learned throughout his life that there is a vast difference between worldly knowledge and godly wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:25). In this book, he is warning us to put things in the proper order. The "fear of the Lord" is the beginning: it should hold the chief position, the place of priority in our lives, and then we will obtain knowledge and put it into its proper place. However, just because knowledge should not overtake the Lord in priority, we are not to despise wise instruction. Instead, when everything is in its proper place, we will fear the Lord, obtain knowledge, and enjoy wise instruction.

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 11/21/2024 4:46:47 AM

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