Topical Proverbs

Proverbs

The purpose of these proverbs is to teach people wisdom and discipline, and to help them understand wise sayings. Through these proverbs, people will receive instruction in discipline, good conduct, and doing what is right, just, and fair. These proverbs will make the simpleminded clever. They will give knowledge and purpose to young people.
Let those who are wise listen to these proverbs and become even wiser. And let those who understand receive guidance by exploring the depth of meaning in these proverbs, parables, wise sayings, and riddles.
Fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge. Only fools despise wisdom and discipline…I am teaching you today-yes, you-so you will trust in the Lord. I have written thirty sayings for you, filled with advice and knowledge. In this way, you may know the truth and bring an accurate report to those who sent you. - Proverbs 1:2-7; 22:19-21

Who wrote these Proverbs?
The vast majority represent the accumulated wisdom of Solomon ben David, king of Israel.

1:1 These are the proverbs of Solomon, David’s son, king of Israel.
25:1 These are more proverbs of Solomon, collected by the advisers of King Hezekiah of Judah.

Other wise men, however also made contributions.

30:1-4 The message of Agur son of Jakeh. An oracle. I am weary, O God; I am weary and worn out, O God. I am too ignorant to be human, and I lack common sense. I have not mastered human wisdom, nor do I know the Holy One. Who but God goes up to heaven and comes back down? Who holds the wind in his fists? Who wraps up the oceans in his cloak? Who has created the whole wide world? What is his name—and his son’s name? Tell me if you know!
31:1-3 These are the sayings of King Lemuel, an oracle that his mother taught him.