What does Proverbs 1:23 mean?
ESV: If you turn at my reproof, behold, I will pour out my spirit to you; I will make my words known to you.
NIV: Repent at my rebuke! Then I will pour out my thoughts to you, I will make known to you my teachings.
NASB: Turn to my rebuke, Behold, I will pour out my spirit on you; I will make my words known to you.
CSB: If you respond to my warning, then I will pour out my spirit on you and teach you my words.
NLT: Come and listen to my counsel. I’ll share my heart with you and make you wise.
KJV: Turn you at my reproof: behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you.
NKJV: Turn at my rebuke; Surely I will pour out my spirit on you; I will make my words known to you.
Verse Commentary:
To this point, wisdom has been imagined as a woman shouting out in a crowded marketplace. This is a scenario where everyone in the community is forced to either listen to, or ignore, the voice of the woman. Most people, according to verse 22, prefer to "love being simple." In literal terms, these are the people who prefer to be ignorant.
Here we see the benefits available to those who will stop and listen. Amidst all of the confusion, the crowds, the bustle of activity, some will stop to listen, and accept these difficult words. These are the people who hear what wisdom says and believe. This also means turning away from the sinful temptations of verses 11–14. To such people, wisdom will give knowledge freely. Solomon tells us that wisdom will be poured out to them. In the New Testament this concept is furthered by James when he states, "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him." (James 1:5).
Verse Context:
Proverbs 1:20–33 concludes the first chapter of Proverbs with the dire consequences of the behaviors defined in the previous section. Also, in this segment is the first personification of wisdom as a female. Throughout Proverbs, Solomon likens wisdom to a woman crying out. The theme is that she is not hiding but is out in the open for all to hear, even though she often goes overlooked.
Chapter Summary:
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.
Chapter Context:
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.
Book Summary:
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.
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