Proverbs 1:17 - Printer Friendly

ESV: For in vain is a net spread in the sight of any bird,

NIV: How useless to spread a net where every bird can see it!

NASB: Indeed, it is useless to spread the baited net In the sight of any bird;

CSB: It is useless to spread a net where any bird can see it,

NLT: If a bird sees a trap being set, it knows to stay away.

KJV: Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird.

NKJV: Surely, in vain the net is spread In the sight of any bird;

Here, Solomon shows the plans of evil people to be foolishness. Solomon desperately wants to point out that all their promises are in vain. He uses the simple example of the bird. Even that ignorant animal is smart enough not to be caught in a trap when it watches the hunter set it up. Thinking one can escape obvious disaster is foolish. Only the fool will be taken by the temptation of these sinners. Sadly, human beings are prone to making exactly these kinds of ridiculous mistakes.

Proverbs 1:8–19 is a warning against foolishness and the allure of sinful behavior. Solomon begins this warning by appealing to his children to honor their parents' teaching. As any parent knows, it’s often best to outline a negative behavior before stating the consequences of that behavior. The example used seems extreme, but it is meant to point towards an obvious conclusion.

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 5/6/2024 8:14:18 AM