1 Doth not wisdom cry? and understanding put forth her voice?
2 She standeth in the top of high places, by the way in the places of the paths.
3 She crieth at the gates, at the entry of the city, at the coming in at the doors.
4 Unto you, O men, I call; and my voice [is] to the sons of man.
5 O ye simple, understand wisdom: and, ye fools, be ye of an understanding heart.
6 Hear; for I will speak of excellent things; and the opening of my lips [shall be] right things.
7 For my mouth shall speak truth; and wickedness [is] an abomination to my lips.
8 All the words of my mouth [are] in righteousness; [there is] nothing froward or perverse in them.
9 They [are] all plain to him that understandeth, and right to them that find knowledge.
10 Receive my instruction, and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold.
11 For wisdom [is] better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it.
12 I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions.
13 The fear of the LORD [is] to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.
14 Counsel [is] mine, and sound wisdom: I [am] understanding; I have strength.
15 By me kings reign, and princes decree justice.
16 By me princes rule, and nobles, [even] all the judges of the earth.
17 I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.
18 Riches and honour [are] with me; [yea], durable riches and righteousness.
19 My fruit [is] better than gold, yea, than fine gold; and my revenue than choice silver.
20 I lead in the way of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of judgment:
21 That I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures.
22 The LORD possessed me in the beginning of his way, before his works of old.
23 I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was.
24 When [there were] no depths, I was brought forth; when [there were] no fountains abounding with water.
25 Before the mountains were settled, before the hills was I brought forth:
26 While as yet he had not made the earth, nor the fields, nor the highest part of the dust of the world.
27 When he prepared the heavens, I [was] there: when he set a compass upon the face of the depth:
28 When he established the clouds above: when he strengthened the fountains of the deep:
29 When he gave to the sea his decree, that the waters should not pass his commandment: when he appointed the foundations of the earth:
30 Then I was by him, [as] one brought up [with him]: and I was daily [his] delight, rejoicing always before him;
31 Rejoicing in the habitable part of his earth; and my delights [were] with the sons of men.
32 Now therefore hearken unto me, O ye children: for blessed [are they that] keep my ways.
33 Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not.
34 Blessed [is] the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors.
35 For whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the LORD.
36 But he that sinneth against me wrongeth his own soul: all they that hate me love death.
Overview of Proverbs Chapter 8
Proverbs Chapter 8 is a poetic discourse that personifies Wisdom as a woman calling out to humanity. This chapter emphasizes the value and importance of wisdom, presenting it as a fundamental aspect of life that leads to righteousness and prosperity. The chapter contrasts the benefits of wisdom with the consequences of ignoring it, urging readers to seek and embrace wisdom in their lives.
Personification of Wisdom
Wisdom is depicted as a female figure who stands at the crossroads, calling out to people to listen to her teachings. This personification serves several purposes:
- Accessibility: Wisdom is portrayed as approachable and eager to share her insights with all who will listen.
- Desirability: By presenting wisdom as a woman, the text evokes a sense of value and desirability, encouraging readers to pursue wisdom as one would pursue a worthy companion.
- Authority: Wisdom speaks with authority, claiming to possess knowledge and understanding that surpasses earthly treasures.
The Call of Wisdom
In verses 1-5, Wisdom calls out to the people:
- She raises her voice in public spaces, emphasizing her desire to reach everyone.
- Wisdom invites the simple and foolish to learn from her, indicating that her teachings are for all, regardless of their current understanding.
- She emphasizes the importance of discernment and understanding, urging listeners to seek her out.
The Value of Wisdom
Verses 6-11 highlight the intrinsic value of wisdom:
- Wisdom speaks of her righteous and truthful nature, contrasting her teachings with the deceitful words of the wicked.
- She declares that her words are more precious than silver, gold, and rubies, signifying that true wealth comes from understanding and embracing wisdom.
- Wisdom offers lasting benefits, including righteousness, justice, and equity, which are essential for a prosperous life.
The Role of Wisdom in Creation
In verses 22-31, Wisdom describes her role in the creation of the world:
- Wisdom claims to have been present with God before the creation of the earth, indicating her eternal nature.
- She describes her involvement in the formation of the heavens, the depths, and the foundations of the earth.
- This portrayal elevates wisdom to a divine status, suggesting that those who seek wisdom are aligning themselves with the very principles of creation.
Benefits of Embracing Wisdom
Verses 32-36 outline the blessings that come from embracing wisdom:
- Those who listen to Wisdom are blessed and find happiness.
- Wisdom offers protection and security, suggesting that those who heed her call will avoid the pitfalls of life.
- Conversely, those who ignore Wisdom bring harm upon themselves, illustrating the consequences of rejecting her teachings.
Conclusion
Proverbs Chapter 8 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of seeking wisdom in all aspects of life. By personifying wisdom as a woman calling out to humanity, the chapter emphasizes her value, accessibility, and divine nature. The text encourages readers to prioritize wisdom, highlighting the blessings that come from embracing her teachings and the dangers of neglecting them.
