Our 36th Word is Proverb
The definition for proverb is a concise, memorable saying intended to impart wise counsel.
“The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel. (Proverbs 1:1)
All cultures collect proverbs, and it’s not hard to see why they do. Good proverbs are what Twitter wants to be, but rarely does it ever reach the level of being profound or wise like what you’ll find in the Bible. Good proverbs make us think and smile or sometimes even make us wince. They offer us wise reminders and often much needed correction. For example:
- “The person who gossips with you will gossip about you.” – Irish proverb
- “Never write a letter when you’re angry.” – Chinese proverb
- “Give a man a fish, and he eats for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you’ll never see him again.” – American proverb
As most people know, the ancient Hebrews collected proverbs too. It helped that they had a wise king such as Solomon, who flung good proverbs around the way some people toss confetti on New Year’s Eve.
The book of Proverbs in the Bible which are mostly attributed to King Solomon, is the fifth most popular book in the Bible.
The Hebrew word for “proverb” is related to a verb that means “to be comparable to.” A proverb then is a short saying that compares two things. It’s a form of wisdom literature that functions like a mini-parable. Someone makes a perceptive observation about life, and then expresses it in a clear and memorable way.
A classic example is Proverbs 12:18; “The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”
Brilliant! In one sentence we get a vivid, memorable, eye-opening comparison between the damaging effects of careless speech and the healing impact of wise expression.
Who among us doesn’t need some practical wisdom, every day of our lives? Could you use insights about work or parenting or resolving conflict/ How about admonitions to associate with the honorable people and warnings against running off at the mouth or trusting in your wealth? Need some encouragements to live with integrity or reminders about what happens to those who live with no thought of God? The proverbs in the ancient book of Proverbs offer these kinds of insights and more.
It’s crucial to remember that proverbs are not promises. Unless they specifically mention God’s character or conduct, we shouldn’t see them as iron clad guarantees, but instead as general observations about life in a fallen and broken world.
Are Solomon’s wise words really worth our time and attention, especially when we could be being watching that new reality TV show everyone is raving about?
Well, it depends on if we believe this proverb: “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” (Proverbs 13:20)
Questions to Ponder
- Why is it important to remember that a proverb is generally a true observation about life and not an iron clad divine promise?
- Most people love a punchy, memorable proverb. Do you have a favorite? One that sticks with you and guides you?
No Thought Police 