Bible Commentaries
Proverbs 9

Introduction

CHAPTER 9

:-. The commendation of wisdom is continued, under the figure of a liberal host, and its provisions under that of a feast (compare Luke 14:16-24). The character of those who are invited is followed by a contrasted description of the rejectors of good counsel; and with the invitations of wisdom are contrasted the allurement of the wicked woman.

Verse 1

1. house—(compare :-).

her—or, "its" (the house).

seven pillars—the number seven for many, or a sufficiency ( :-).

Verse 2

2. mingled—to enhance the flavor (Proverbs 23:30; Isaiah 5:22).

furnished—literally, "set out," "arranged."

Verse 3

3. maidens—servants to invite (compare Psalms 68:11; Isaiah 40:9).

highest places—ridges of heights, conspicuous places.

Verse 4

4-6. (Compare Proverbs 1:4; Proverbs 6:32). Wisdom not only supplies right but forbids wrong principles.

Verse 7

7, 8. shame—(Compare :-).

a blot—or, "stain on character." Both terms denote the evil done by others to one whose faithfulness secures a wise man's love.

Verse 9

9. The more a wise man learns, the more he loves wisdom.

Verse 10

10. (Compare :-).

of the holy—literally, "holies," persons or things, or both. This knowledge gives right perception.

Verse 11

11. (Compare Proverbs 3:16-18; Proverbs 4:10).

Verse 12

12. You are mainly concerned in your own conduct.

Verse 13

13. foolish woman—or literally, "woman of folly," specially manifested by such as are described.

clamorous—or, "noisy" (Proverbs 7:11).

knoweth nothing—literally, "knoweth not what," that is, is right and proper.

Verse 14

14. on a seat—literally, "throne," takes a prominent place, impudently and haughtily.

Verse 15

15, 16. to allure those who are right-minded, and who are addressed as in :-, as

simple—that is, easily led (Proverbs 1:4) and unsettled, though willing to do right.

Verse 17

17. The language of a proverb, meaning that forbidden delights are sweet and pleasant, as fruits of risk and danger.

Verse 18

18. (Compare Proverbs 2:18; Proverbs 2:19; Proverbs 7:27).