Proverbs

Proverbs is the classic book of biblical wisdom — short, memorable sayings for living well, gathered largely under the name of Solomon. Its programme is set in the opening chapters: 'The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge' (1:7), wisdom personified calling in the streets, and a father's urgent counsel to his son.

The bulk of the book is practical: on speech, work, money, friendship, self-control, honesty and the choice between wisdom and folly. It closes with the portrait of the capable 'woman of noble character' (chapter 31). Proverbs assumes that the world is morally ordered and that skill in living begins with reverence for God.