Reading for February 13th

Read Proverbs 23.1-28. In verses 1-3:Dining etiquette, especially moderation with food and drink, is a common topic in Egyptian instructions. Banquets were occasion for younger servants to advance themselves, and self-indulgence would leave a bad impression. In verse 1: Observe carefully what is before you reffers both to the food and the host. In verse 2: Put a knife to your throat: put your knife in your jaws rather than in the food, that is, restrain your appetite. In verses 6-7: Dont go to baquets when you are not invited or wanted. Though courtesy forces the host to say "eat and drink!", the words are insincere. The result will be indigestion and frustration for the unwelcomed guest. In verses 13-14; Hyperbole and sardonic humor are used to give advice on raising children. It is not disciplinary blows that will kill a child but uncorredted behavior that will lead to fatal consequences. The humor and hyperbole show the admonition does not espouse the corporal punishment of children. In verses 17-18: A warning against peer-group pressure, which is especially appilicable to the young. Why envy the wicked, for they have no future, no descendants? The warning is repeated in 24.1 and 19-20. In verses 22-23: The two commands in v. 23, buy truth and do not sell it, continue on ametaphorical level in the two commands in v. 22, listen and do not despise. Comments or Questions..