Proverbs 9: Wisdom's Invitation
Best for: Decision making, accepting feedback
Overview
Proverbs 9 presents two invitations: one from Wisdom and one from Folly. Wisdom has built her house, prepared her feast, and sends out her maidens to invite the simple. Folly also calls from the high places, but her table leads to death.
The chapter repeats the foundational truth that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and adds that the knowledge of the holy is understanding. It draws a sharp line between those who accept correction and those who scorn it.
Key Verses
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding."— Proverbs 9:10 (KJV)
"Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee."— Proverbs 9:8 (KJV)
Key Themes
Reflection
Every day we sit at one of two tables — Wisdom's or Folly's. Which invitation are you accepting? The teachable person grows; the scoffer only adds to their own destruction.
Practical Application
When someone offers correction, receive it with humility rather than defensiveness. This single habit distinguishes the wise from the foolish.
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Read wisdom guideFrequently Asked Questions
What is Proverbs 9 about?
Proverbs 9 presents two invitations: one from Wisdom and one from Folly. Wisdom has built her house, prepared her feast, and sends out her maidens to invite the simple. Folly also calls from the high places, but her table leads to death. The chapter repeats the foundational truth that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and adds that the knowledge of the holy is understanding. It draws a sharp line between those who accept correction and those who scorn it.
What does Proverbs 9 teach us?
Every day we sit at one of two tables — Wisdom's or Folly's. Which invitation are you accepting? The teachable person grows; the scoffer only adds to their own destruction.
What are the key themes of Proverbs 9?
The key themes of Proverbs 9 include: Choice, Fear of God, Correction, Life vs Death.
When should I read Proverbs 9?
Proverbs 9 is especially relevant for: Decision making, accepting feedback. Many people read it on the 9th of each month as part of a Proverbs-a-day plan.