Read Proverbs 3.13-35. In verses 13-20: Wisdom's benefits and prestige. Some scholars believe the poem consists of vv. 13-26 rather than 13-20. The 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 associated with wisdom. its fruit 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 to the neighbor brings blessing to oneself. Treating others well rings life to oneself. The blessings are portrayed as accruing to one's very body-eyes (sight), throat (soul:The thoat is the source of life-breath), neck, and foot. To put wisdom into practice brings her gifts, life (v. 22a), honor (adornment, v. 22b), and protection from crime and violence (vv. 23-25). Comments or Questions..
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment