Six Sayings of the Wise

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by: Denise Robinson

04/07/2021

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The final verses of Ch. 24 contain six "sayings of the wise": two dealing with legal topics, two with speech, and two that concern work. 


These also are sayings of the wise: Partiality in judging is not good. Whoever says to the wicked, “You are innocent,” will be cursed by peoples, abhorred by nations; but those who rebuke the wicked will have delight, and a good blessing will come upon them. One who gives an honest answer gives a kiss on the lips. Prepare your work outside, get everything ready for you in the field; and after that build your house. Do not be a witness against your neighbor without cause, and do not deceive with your lips. Do not say, “I will do to others as they have done to me; I will pay them back for what they have done.” I passed by the field of one who was lazy, by the vineyard of a stupid person; and see, it was all overgrown with thorns; the ground was covered with nettles, and its stone wall was broken down. Then I saw and considered it; I looked and received instruction. A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want, like an armed warrior.  (Prov. 24:23-34)


Legal verses: Partiality in judging is condemned in OT Scripture because it would usually be as the result of bribery or favoritism. The same generally could be said of those who would testify against their neighbors without cause: they are committing perjury often for similar reasons. Speech: speak honestly, don't lie. Work: have a plan for success, don't cut corners, don't be lazy. 

Reflection: upholding the legal system, speaking truthfully and in a way that unifies rather than divides, and having a strong work ethic are themes in Proverbs that are repeated almost endlessly. Why do you think these are so important to Solomon's "way of wisdom"?
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The final verses of Ch. 24 contain six "sayings of the wise": two dealing with legal topics, two with speech, and two that concern work. 


These also are sayings of the wise: Partiality in judging is not good. Whoever says to the wicked, “You are innocent,” will be cursed by peoples, abhorred by nations; but those who rebuke the wicked will have delight, and a good blessing will come upon them. One who gives an honest answer gives a kiss on the lips. Prepare your work outside, get everything ready for you in the field; and after that build your house. Do not be a witness against your neighbor without cause, and do not deceive with your lips. Do not say, “I will do to others as they have done to me; I will pay them back for what they have done.” I passed by the field of one who was lazy, by the vineyard of a stupid person; and see, it was all overgrown with thorns; the ground was covered with nettles, and its stone wall was broken down. Then I saw and considered it; I looked and received instruction. A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want, like an armed warrior.  (Prov. 24:23-34)


Legal verses: Partiality in judging is condemned in OT Scripture because it would usually be as the result of bribery or favoritism. The same generally could be said of those who would testify against their neighbors without cause: they are committing perjury often for similar reasons. Speech: speak honestly, don't lie. Work: have a plan for success, don't cut corners, don't be lazy. 

Reflection: upholding the legal system, speaking truthfully and in a way that unifies rather than divides, and having a strong work ethic are themes in Proverbs that are repeated almost endlessly. Why do you think these are so important to Solomon's "way of wisdom"?
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