The Wisdom of Proverbs

Proverb: A short sentence expressing a well known truth or common fact. A maxim of wisdom. A moral sentence or maxim (principal of truth). The book in scripture containing a great variety of wise maxims, rich in truth and excellent rules for the conduct of all classes of men.

What a definition! In summary, a proverb is a principal of truth written down for the benefit of all men.
The proverbs are Truth!
Solomon asked for, and was granted wisdom from God above all other men.
"So God said to Solomon, 'Because you have asked this...see I shall do according to your words. See I shall give you a wise and understanding heart, so that there was none like you before you, and none like you shall arise after you." 1 Kings 3:11-12

Solomon is known to be one of the foremost authors of the proverbs. He penned the wisdom that was granted to him by God, for the benefit of all men.

Proverbs 2:6 says that "wisdom comes from Yahweh". In Proverbs 4:7 He tells us that the beginning of wisdom is: GET WISDOM!, and with all your getting, get understanding.

So if the beginning of wisdom is to get it, and we know that wisdom only comes from Yahweh, we must begin with the words of King Solomon in the first chapter of the Proverbs. Solomon begins his exortation in verse 1 by stating that the principals of truth that he is about to speak are indeed coming from him. He goes on in verses 2-6 to explain why he is speaking these "truths", and the benefits they will bestow. He states that they are for knowing wisdom, disciplne, and to receive understanding, and also to receive the discipline that wisdom brings, along with attaining righteousness, justice, and straightness. Insight will be given to the simple, and the young will gain knowledge, and discretion. (v. 3-4) He also addresses the wise in verse 5, and states that even he will increase learning, and those who have understanding will receive wise counsel. He concludes in verse 6 with "For understanding a proverb, and a figure, the words of the wise, and their riddles."

Simply put, no-one gets left out of the blessing. Everyone from the simple to the wise will gain more insight, wisdom and understanding by heeding the words of the proverbs.

Verse 7 of Proverbs ch 1 is where the actual words of Solomons wisdom begin. He states his first proverb(principal of truth).
"The fear of Yahweh is the beginning of knowledge; Fools despise wisdom and discipline. " (Prov 1:7)

Fear of Yahweh, a reverential awe( reverence is a deep respect, affection, and worshipful attitude) .

So it is this deep respectful, worshipful affection that we have for Yahweh, this is the beginning of our knowledge. Those who have this "fear" are obedient to the principals of His wisdom, but on the other hand He tells us that one is a fool who despises the wisdom and discipline that He brings.

Let us not be found in the company of the fool.

Look for 'The Wisdom of Solomon part 2' a continued study on Proverbs chapter 1 coming soon