Proverbs
Nine One Five
#06
Proverbs 1:6 To understand a proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings.
What is a Proverb?
We are familiar with the concept of a proverb, or of proverbial wisdom. We know ones such as: “It’s better to be safe than sorry” or “Don’t judge a book by its cover”. Every culture uses proverbs to communicate information in the form of wise little sayings.
We have said that a proverb is a “pro” “verb” or a positive action, however, that is an over simplification.
Proverbs are wise principles presented as sayings that are intentionally designed to be memorable; so that even a child can learn them.
Here a proverb is defined as “the words of the wise, and their dark sayings”. They are mysterious, or dark in nature like fables, poems, and even parables. So that their wisdom is held behind what feels like a simple statement, but they are much deeper than they appear upon first reading. This is why the previous verse says we must listen and attain to understand them.
It is important to see each proverb as some principle of wisdom that we are to try to understand and apply to our lives.
Most Proverbs are written so that there are two halves that are contrasted in perfect balance with one another. Usually, each half is a principle to be understood alone, and then in contrast to the other half of the verse.
God uses proverbs in a way that the more you study them, the more profound you will find their wisdom to be. Yet, because they are written as proverbs, you may more easily hold them in your heart. This shows clearly that God wants you to carry His wisdom with you.
We have said that a proverb is a “pro” “verb” or a positive action, however, that is an over simplification.
Proverbs are wise principles presented as sayings that are intentionally designed to be memorable; so that even a child can learn them.
Here a proverb is defined as “the words of the wise, and their dark sayings”. They are mysterious, or dark in nature like fables, poems, and even parables. So that their wisdom is held behind what feels like a simple statement, but they are much deeper than they appear upon first reading. This is why the previous verse says we must listen and attain to understand them.
It is important to see each proverb as some principle of wisdom that we are to try to understand and apply to our lives.
Most Proverbs are written so that there are two halves that are contrasted in perfect balance with one another. Usually, each half is a principle to be understood alone, and then in contrast to the other half of the verse.
God uses proverbs in a way that the more you study them, the more profound you will find their wisdom to be. Yet, because they are written as proverbs, you may more easily hold them in your heart. This shows clearly that God wants you to carry His wisdom with you.