Author of the Book of Proverbs
King Solomon, famous for his wisdom, is credited as one of the authors of Proverbs. Other contributors include a group of men called "The Wise," Agur, and King Lemuel.
Date Written
Proverbs was probably written during the reign of Solomon, 971-931 B.C.
Audience
Proverbs has several audiences. It is addressed to parents for instruction to their children. The book also applies to young men and women who are seeking wisdom, and finally, it supplies practical advice for today's Bible readers who want to live a godly life.
Landscape of Proverbs
Although Proverbs was written in Israel thousands of years ago, its wisdom is applicable to any culture at any time.
Themes in Proverbs
Every person can have right relationships with God and others by following the timeless advice in Proverbs. Its many themes cover work, money, marriage, friendship, family life, perseverance, and pleasing God.
Key Characters
The "characters" in Proverbs are types of people we can learn from: wise people, fools, simple folk, and the wicked. They are used in these short sayings to point out behavior we should avoid or imitate.
Key Verses
Proverbs 1:7
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction. (NIV)
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. (NIV)
Proverbs 18:22
He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the LORD. (NIV)
Proverbs 30:5
Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. (NIV)
Outline of the Book of Proverbs
- Benefits of wisdom and warnings against adultery and folly - Proverbs 1:1-9:18.
- Wise advice for all people - Proverbs 10:1-24:34.
- Wise advice for leaders - Proverbs 25:1-31:31.
From: Written by Jack Zavada. Learnreligions.com
