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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Proverbs 1:1 These are the proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel,</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/proverbs/1-1.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/5/20_Pro_01_01.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Proverbs 1:1 - The Beginning of Knowledge" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="These are the proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel," /><script type="application/javascript" 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cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad1.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/psalms/150-6.htm" title="Psalm 150:6">◄</a> Proverbs 1:1 <a href="/proverbs/1-2.htm" title="Proverbs 1:2">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/proverbs/1.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/proverbs/1.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/proverbs/1.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />These are the proverbs of Solomon, David’s son, king of Israel.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/proverbs/1.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />The proverbs of Solomon, son of David, king of Israel:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/proverbs/1.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />These are the proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/proverbs/1.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/proverbs/1.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/proverbs/1.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/proverbs/1.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/proverbs/1.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/proverbs/1.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/proverbs/1.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />The proverbs (truths obscurely expressed, maxims) of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/proverbs/1.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/proverbs/1.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/proverbs/1.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/proverbs/1.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />These are the proverbs of King Solomon of Israel, the son of David. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/proverbs/1.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/proverbs/1.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />The proverbs of Solomon, David's son who was king of Israel, [given]<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/proverbs/1.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />The proverbs of Solomon, son of David and king of Israel. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/proverbs/1.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />The proverbs of David's son Solomon, king of Israel.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/proverbs/1.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />These are the proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/proverbs/1.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />The Proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/proverbs/1.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />The proverbs of Solomon, the son of David, king of Israel:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/proverbs/1.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/proverbs/1.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />The proverbs of Solomon, the son of David, king of Israel: <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/proverbs/1.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />Proverbs of Solomon, son of David, king of Israel:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/proverbs/1.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> Proverbs of Solomon, son of David, king of Israel:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/proverbs/1.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />Proverbs of Solomon, son of David, king of Israel;<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/proverbs/1.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />The parables of Solomon, the son of David, king of Israel. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/proverbs/1.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />The parables of Solomon, son of David, king of Israel,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/proverbs/1.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />The proverbs of Solomon, the son of David, king of Israel: <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/proverbs/1.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/proverbs/1.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />THE proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/proverbs/1.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />The Proverbs of Solomon, son of David, King of Israel.<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/proverbs/1.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/proverbs/1.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />The Proverbs of Solomon son of David, who reigned in Israel;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/proverbs/1-1.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kpUA5ZltBeQ?start=0" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/proverbs/1.htm">The Beginning of Knowledge</a></span><br> <span class="reftext">1</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/4912.htm" title="4912: miš·lê (N-mpc) -- A proverb, parable. ">These are the proverbs</a> <a href="/hebrew/8010.htm" title="8010: šə·lō·mōh (N-proper-ms) -- David's son and successor to his throne. From shalowm; peaceful; Shelomah, David's successor.">of Solomon</a> <a href="/hebrew/1121.htm" title="1121: ḇen- (N-msc) -- Son. From banah; a son, in the widest sense (like 'ab, 'ach, etc.).">son</a> <a href="/hebrew/1732.htm" title="1732: dā·wiḏ (N-proper-ms) -- Perhaps beloved one, a son of Jesse. Rarely; Daviyd; from the same as dowd; loving; David, the youngest son of Jesse.">of David,</a> <a href="/hebrew/4428.htm" title="4428: me·leḵ (N-msc) -- King. From malak; a king.">king</a> <a href="/hebrew/3478.htm" title="3478: yiś·rā·’êl (N-proper-ms) -- From sarah and 'el; he will rule as God; Jisrael, a symbolical name of Jacob; also of his posterity.">of Israel,</a> </span><span class="reftext">2</span>for gaining wisdom and discipline, for comprehending words of insight,…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_kings/4-32.htm">1 Kings 4:32</a></span><br />Solomon composed three thousand proverbs, and his songs numbered a thousand and five.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/ecclesiastes/12-9.htm">Ecclesiastes 12:9</a></span><br />Not only was the Teacher wise, but he also taught the people knowledge; he pondered, searched out, and arranged many proverbs.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_kings/3-12.htm">1 Kings 3:12</a></span><br />behold, I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been another like you, nor will there ever be.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_kings/10-23.htm">1 Kings 10:23-24</a></span><br />So King Solomon surpassed all the kings of the earth in riches and wisdom. / The whole world sought an audience with Solomon to hear the wisdom that God had put in his heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_chronicles/9-22.htm">2 Chronicles 9:22-23</a></span><br />So King Solomon surpassed all the kings of the earth in riches and wisdom. / All the kings of the earth sought an audience with Solomon to hear the wisdom that God had put in his heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/12-42.htm">Matthew 12:42</a></span><br />The Queen of the South will rise at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and now One greater than Solomon is here.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/luke/11-31.htm">Luke 11:31</a></span><br />The Queen of the South will rise at the judgment with the men of this generation and condemn them; for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and now One greater than Solomon is here.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/1-5.htm">James 1:5</a></span><br />Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/colossians/2-3.htm">Colossians 2:3</a></span><br />in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/1-24.htm">1 Corinthians 1:24</a></span><br />but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/1-30.htm">1 Corinthians 1:30</a></span><br />It is because of Him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God: our righteousness, holiness, and redemption.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_timothy/3-15.htm">2 Timothy 3:15</a></span><br />From infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/11-33.htm">Romans 11:33</a></span><br />O, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments, and untraceable His ways!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/11-2.htm">Isaiah 11:2</a></span><br />The Spirit of the LORD will rest on Him—the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and strength, the Spirit of knowledge and fear of the LORD.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/33-6.htm">Isaiah 33:6</a></span><br />He will be the sure foundation for your times, a storehouse of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge. The fear of the LORD is Zion’s treasure.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel;</p><p class="hdg">solomon</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_samuel/12-24.htm">2 Samuel 12:24,25</a></b></br> And David comforted Bathsheba his wife, and went in unto her, and lay with her: and she bare a son, and he called his name Solomon: and the LORD loved him… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_kings/2-12.htm">1 Kings 2:12</a></b></br> Then sat Solomon upon the throne of David his father; and his kingdom was established greatly.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_chronicles/22-9.htm">1 Chronicles 22:9</a></b></br> Behold, a son shall be born to thee, who shall be a man of rest; and I will give him rest from all his enemies round about: for his name shall be Solomon, and I will give peace and quietness unto Israel in his days.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/psalms/145-1.htm">David</a> <a href="/psalms/149-2.htm">Israel</a> <a href="/job/13-12.htm">Proverbs</a> <a href="/psalms/145-7.htm">Sayings</a> <a href="/psalms/127-1.htm">Solomon</a> <a href="/psalms/111-10.htm">Wise</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/ecclesiastes/1-1.htm">David</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/1-12.htm">Israel</a> <a href="/proverbs/1-6.htm">Proverbs</a> <a href="/proverbs/1-2.htm">Sayings</a> <a href="/proverbs/10-1.htm">Solomon</a> <a href="/proverbs/1-2.htm">Wise</a><div class="vheading2">Proverbs 1</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/1-1.htm">The use of the proverbs</a></span><br><span class="reftext">7. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/1-7.htm">An exhortation to fear God, and believe his word</a></span><br><span class="reftext">10. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/1-10.htm">to avoid the enticing of sinners</a></span><br><span class="reftext">20. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/1-20.htm">Wisdom complains of her contempt</a></span><br><span class="reftext">24. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/proverbs/1-24.htm">She threatens her contemners</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/proverbs/1.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/proverbs/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/proverbs/1.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>These are the proverbs</b><br>The term "proverbs" refers to short, pithy sayings that express general truths or practical precepts. In the biblical context, proverbs are often seen as divinely inspired wisdom meant to guide moral and ethical behavior. The Book of Proverbs is part of the Wisdom Literature in the Old Testament, which also includes Job, Ecclesiastes, and some Psalms. These writings focus on the practical application of divine wisdom in daily life. Proverbs are not just for intellectual understanding but are intended to be lived out, reflecting a life aligned with God's will.<p><b>of Solomon</b><br>Solomon, the son of King David and Bathsheba, is traditionally credited as the primary author of the Book of Proverbs. Known for his wisdom, Solomon's reign is often considered a golden age in Israel's history. His wisdom was a gift from God, as described in <a href="/1_kings/3-5.htm">1 Kings 3:5-14</a>, where Solomon asked for an understanding heart to govern the people. Solomon's wisdom was renowned throughout the ancient world, attracting leaders and scholars to his court. The proverbs attributed to him reflect a deep understanding of human nature and the principles of godly living.<p><b>son of David</b><br>David, the second king of Israel, was a man after God's own heart (<a href="/1_samuel/13-14.htm">1 Samuel 13:14</a>). His reign established Jerusalem as the political and spiritual center of Israel. David's legacy is significant in biblical history, as he was promised an everlasting dynasty (<a href="/2_samuel/7-12.htm">2 Samuel 7:12-16</a>), which Christians believe is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, the "Son of David" (<a href="/matthew/1.htm">Matthew 1:1</a>). Solomon, as David's son, inherited not only the throne but also the responsibility to uphold the covenantal promises made to David. This lineage underscores the continuity of God's plan through the Davidic line.<p><b>king of Israel</b><br>Solomon's role as king of Israel places him in a position of authority and responsibility over God's chosen people. His reign was marked by peace and prosperity, allowing him to focus on building projects, including the Temple in Jerusalem, which became the central place of worship for Israel. As king, Solomon's proverbs carry the weight of royal authority and divine wisdom, intended to instruct not only his contemporaries but also future generations. The title "king of Israel" also connects Solomon to the broader narrative of Israel's history, from the patriarchs to the united monarchy, and ultimately to the messianic hope fulfilled in Jesus Christ.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/s/solomon.htm">Solomon</a></b><br>The son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon was the third king of Israel. Known for his wisdom, Solomon is traditionally credited with writing the majority of the Book of Proverbs. His reign is often seen as a time of peace and prosperity for Israel.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/d/david.htm">David</a></b><br>The second king of Israel and father of Solomon, David is a central figure in the Bible, known for his heart for God, his psalms, and his role in establishing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/i/israel.htm">Israel</a></b><br>The nation chosen by God, consisting of the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. During Solomon's reign, Israel was a united kingdom and experienced significant growth and influence.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_value_of_wisdom.htm">The Value of Wisdom</a></b><br>Proverbs begins by establishing the importance of wisdom, a theme that runs throughout the book. As believers, we are encouraged to seek wisdom from God, who is the source of all true understanding.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/l/legacy_and_influence.htm">Legacy and Influence</a></b><br>Solomon's wisdom and writings have had a lasting impact on both religious and secular thought. This reminds us of the importance of leaving a godly legacy through our words and actions.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_leadership.htm">The Role of Leadership</a></b><br>As king, Solomon's wisdom was crucial for leading Israel. This highlights the importance of wise and godly leadership in all areas of life, whether in the home, church, or community.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_fear_of_the_lord.htm">The Fear of the Lord</a></b><br>While not explicitly mentioned in this verse, the fear of the Lord is a foundational theme in Proverbs. It is the beginning of knowledge and wisdom, guiding us in righteous living.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_proverbs_1.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 1</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/did_solomon_write_proverbs_1.htm">Is there any solid historical or literary evidence to confirm Solomon as the author of Proverbs 1, or did later writers compile these teachings under his name? </a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/is_solomon's_authorship_of_proverbs_4_proven.htm">Are there historical or archaeological sources confirming Solomon’s authorship of Proverbs 4, or is that solely a traditional attribution? </a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/who_is_the_author_of_proverbs.htm">Who is the author of Proverbs?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/why_no_evidence_for_proverbs_6_origin.htm">If these proverbs claim universal wisdom, why is there no clear historical or archeological evidence of any unique ancient source behind Proverbs 6? </a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/proverbs/1.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div><span class= "bld">1.--INTRODUCTION DESCRIBING THE PURPOSE OF THE BOOK</span> (<a href="/context/proverbs/1-1.htm" title="The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel;">Proverbs 1:1-6</a>).<p>(1) <span class= "bld">Proverbs.</span>--For the various senses of the Hebrew <span class= "ital">m?sh?l </span>thus translated, see Introduction.<p><span class= "bld">Solomon.--</span>The absolute quiet and prosperity of the reign of Solomon (the man of peace), as described in <a href="/1_kings/4-20.htm" title="Judah and Israel were many, as the sand which is by the sea in multitude, eating and drinking, and making merry.">1Kings 4:20</a>, <span class= "ital">sqq., </span>would naturally be conducive to the growth of a sententious philosophy; whereas the constant wars and dangerous life of David had called forth the impassioned eloquence of the Psalms.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/proverbs/1.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 1.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">The proverbs of Solomon.</span> The word which is here translated "proverbs" is the original <span class="accented">mishle</span> (<span class="hebrew">מִשְׁלֵי</span>), the construct case of <span class="accented">mashal</span> (<span class="hebrew">מָשָׁל</span>), which, again, is derived from the verb <span class="accented">mashal</span> (<span class="hebrew">מָשַׁל</span>), signifying <p><span class="note_emph">(1)</span> "to make like," "to assimilate," and <p><span class="note_emph">(2)</span> "to have dominion" (Gesenius). <p>The radical signification of <span class="accented">mashal</span> is "comparison" or "similitude," and in this sense it is applied generally to the utterances of the wise. In <a href="/numbers/23-7.htm">Numbers 23:7, 8</a> it is used of the prophetic predictions of Balaam; certain didactic psalms, <span class="accented">e.g.</span> <a href="/psalms/49-5.htm">Psalm 49:5</a> and Psalm 78:2, are so designated, and in Job (<a href="/job/27-1.htm">Job 27:1</a> and Job 29:1) it describes the sententious discourses of wise men. While all these come under the generic term of <span class="accented">m'shalim</span>, though few or no comparisons are found in them, we find the term <span class="accented">mashal</span> sometimes used of what are proverbs in the sense of popular sayings. Compare "Therefore it became a proverb (<span class="hebrew">מָשָׁל</span>), Is Saul also among the prophets?" (<a href="/1_samuel/10-12.htm">1 Samuel 10:12</a>); and see also other instances in <a href="/ezekiel/16-4.htm">Ezekiel 16:4</a> and Ezekiel 18:2. In this sense it is also found in the collection before us. The predominant idea of the term, however, is that of comparison or similitude, and as such it is better represented by the Greek <span class="greek">παραβολή</span> (from <span class="greek">παραβάλλω</span>, "to set or place side by side"), literally, a placing beside, or comparison, than by <span class="greek">παροιμία</span>, "a byword," or "a trite wayside saying," though in the Greek of the synoptic Gospels <span class="greek">παροιμία</span> is equivalent to <span class="greek">παραβολή</span>. The English word "proverb" insufficiently renders the wider scope of meaning conveyed in the Hebrew <span class="accented">mashal</span>, and is not quite accurately rendered here, since of proverbs in our ordinary signification of that word there are comparatively few in this collection. The Hebrew word here means "maxims," "aphorisms," "wise counsels." <span class="accented">Of Solomon.</span> Most modern commentators (Delitzsch, Zockler, Fuerst, Stuart, Plumptre, etc.), while attributing, in a greater or less degree, the authorship of the book to Solomon, regard the insertion of his name in the title as indicating rather that he is the dominant spirit among those wise men of his age, some of whose sayings are here incorporated with his own. <span class="cmt_word">King of Israel</span>, as forming the second hemistich of the verse, goes with "Solomon," and not "David." This is indicated in the Authorized Version by the position of the comma. The Arabic Version omits allusion to David, and reads, "Proverbia, nempe documenta Salomonis sapientis, qui regnavit super filios Israel." The proverbial or parabolic form of teaching was a recognized mode of instruction among the Hebrews, and in the Christian Church is recommended by St. Clement of Alexandria ('Strom.,' lib. 11, <span class="accented">init.</span>). <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/proverbs/1-1.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">The proverbs</span><br /><span class="heb">מִ֭שְׁלֵי</span> <span class="translit">(miš·lê)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine plural construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_4912.htm">Strong's 4912: </a> </span><span class="str2">A pithy maxim, a simile</span><br /><br /><span class="word">of Solomon</span><br /><span class="heb">שְׁלֹמֹ֣ה</span> <span class="translit">(šə·lō·mōh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - proper - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_8010.htm">Strong's 8010: </a> </span><span class="str2">Solomon -- David's son and successor to his throne</span><br /><br /><span class="word">son</span><br /><span class="heb">בֶן־</span> <span class="translit">(ḇen-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1121.htm">Strong's 1121: </a> </span><span class="str2">A son</span><br /><br /><span class="word">of David,</span><br /><span class="heb">דָּוִ֑ד</span> <span class="translit">(dā·wiḏ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - proper - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1732.htm">Strong's 1732: </a> </span><span class="str2">David -- perhaps 'beloved one', a son of Jesse</span><br /><br /><span class="word">king</span><br /><span class="heb">מֶ֝֗לֶךְ</span> <span class="translit">(me·leḵ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_4428.htm">Strong's 4428: </a> </span><span class="str2">A king</span><br /><br /><span class="word">of Israel:</span><br /><span class="heb">יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃</span> <span class="translit">(yiś·rā·’êl)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - proper - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3478.htm">Strong's 3478: </a> </span><span class="str2">Israel -- 'God strives', another name of Jacob and his desc</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/proverbs/1-1.htm">Proverbs 1:1 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/proverbs/1-1.htm">Proverbs 1:1 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/proverbs/1-1.htm">Proverbs 1:1 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/proverbs/1-1.htm">Proverbs 1:1 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/proverbs/1-1.htm">Proverbs 1:1 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/proverbs/1-1.htm">Proverbs 1:1 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/proverbs/1-1.htm">Proverbs 1:1 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/proverbs/1-1.htm">Proverbs 1:1 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/proverbs/1-1.htm">Proverbs 1:1 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/proverbs/1-1.htm">Proverbs 1:1 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/proverbs/1-1.htm">OT Poetry: Proverbs 1:1 The proverbs of Solomon the son (Prov. Pro Pr) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/psalms/150-6.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Psalm 150:6"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Psalm 150:6" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/proverbs/1-2.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Proverbs 1:2"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Proverbs 1:2" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>