Proverbs 9 - Introduction

A.M. 3004. B.C. 1000.

In this chapter Solomon seems to illustrate more fully what he had delivered in the conclusion of the foregoing, (Proverbs 8:32,) concerning the satisfaction and happiness they might expect to find, who would attend at the gates, and submit themselves to the government of that heavenly wisdom, which he had described as proceeding from God; and which he here again represents as a glorious queen, the daughter of heaven, adorned with all perfections, living in a stately palace, unto which she invites all men, and promises them, if they will forsake their follies, the most delicious entertainment. This is set forth under the image of a feast; whereby the sacred writers are wont to express (as the aptest resemblance of it that can be found) the high satisfaction, joy, and pleasure, with which the principles of wisdom and virtue fill our hearts, when we have such a true relish of them, that we embrace and digest them, and are enlivened by them to a pious life. This is the substance of the parable; every part of which is not to be minutely scanned, according to the letter of it. Wisdom invites to her feast, Proverbs 9:1. Her counsels concerning reproof and instruction, Proverbs 9:7. A description of the fear of God, and the benefits thereof, Proverbs 9:10. Sin, in the person of a foolish woman, invites us to her entertainment, Proverbs 9:13. Which ends in destruction, Proverbs 9:18.