Reading for October 16th

 Read Proverbs 1.1-7. In 1.1-9.18: Speeches and instructions. In 1.1-7: introduction and purpose of the book. In verse 1: Egyptian and biblical wisdom books, contrary to the customary anonymity of ancient literature, give the name of the author, who was normally a king or prominent courtier advising his son or disciple. Solomon, famed for his wisdom, is named as the author, or, as we might say, patron of the entire book. In verses 2-7; There are fourteen (two times seven) different nouns for wisdom or wise sayings in order to show totality. Verses 2-3 are concerned with learning, v. 4 with teaching, v. 5 with the teacher or age, v. 6 with understanding wisdom writings, and v. 7 (in climatic position) with fear of the Lord. In verse 4: The simple are naive or uninstructed people, either because of their youth or sometimes, because of their carelessness. In the later case the term has a negative connotation. In verse 7; The verse is the climax of the introduction, for the Lord is the source of blessings for the wise. The phrase wisdom and instruction reprises the same phrase inv. 2a. Fear of the Lord is the traditional (and not fully satisfactory) translation of 'yir'at YHWH," literally "revering the Lord." The phrase means giving to one's God what is due, knowing and accepting one's place in the universe. It primarily designates neither an emotion (fear) nor general reverence, but rather a conviction that one should honor and serve a particular god. Comments or Questions..