Reading for January 15th

Read Proverbs 3.13-35. In verses 13-20: Wisdom's benefits and pestige, Some scholars believe the poem consists of vv. 13-26 rather than 13-20. This poem praises wisdom by listing her benefits to the human race and explains her power by describing her role in creation. Since the world is made by wisdom, all those who follow wisdom will live well in the world. In verse 18: Tree of Life: The tree of life occurs in the Hebrew scriptures only in Proverbs and Gen 2-3. In both books the tree is asscoiated with wisdom. Its fruits gives life and prosperity. It is also found in Rev 2.7 and 22.2, 14, 19, where it has been influenced by the picture of the health giving tree in Ezek 47.12. In verses 21-35: Kindness tothe nieghbor brings blessing to oneself. Treating others wellbrings life to oneself. The belssings are portrayed as as accruing to one's very body- eyes (sight), Throat (soul: the throat is the source of life breath), neck and foot. To put wisdom into practice brings her gifts, life (v. 22a), honor (adorment, v. 22 b), and protection from crime and violence (vv. 23-25). Comments or Questions..