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    Proverbs 1 (KJV)

    Read Proverbs chapter 1 in the King James Version of the Holy Bible.

    Proverbs 1

    Deep Verse Commentaries in This Chapter

    Proverbs 1:7

    "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fool…"

    Proverbs 1:8

    "My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not …"

    Proverbs 1:9

    "For they shall be an ornament of grace unto thy head, and ch…"

    Popular Verses in Proverbs 1

    Most searched verses from this chapter, with KJV text and context.

    Proverbs 1:7 KJV

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    Proverbs 1 Summary

    Proverbs 1 introduces the purpose of the entire book: to impart wisdom, instruction, and understanding. Solomon addresses his teaching to 'my son,' establishing the book's framework as a father's counsel to the next generation.

    The chapter presents two voices competing for the young person's allegiance: the voice of Wisdom, personified as a woman crying out in public squares, and the voice of sinners who entice with promises of easy gain. The fear of the LORD is declared the beginning of knowledge, setting the theological foundation for everything that follows.

    Key Themes

    The fear of the LORDWisdom vs. follyParental instructionRejecting evil companionsConsequences of ignoring wisdom

    Key Verses in Proverbs 1

    "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction."

    — Proverbs 1:7

    The thesis statement of Proverbs—all true knowledge starts with reverence for God.

    "Wisdom crieth without; she uttereth her voice in the streets."

    — Proverbs 1:20

    Wisdom isn't hidden—she actively seeks people out. Ignorance is a choice, not a lack of opportunity.

    "My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not."

    — Proverbs 1:10

    Simple, direct counsel—the power to say 'no' is one of wisdom's greatest gifts.

    Life Application

    Proverbs 1 teaches that wisdom is available to everyone—she shouts in the streets! But she must be chosen. Every day you're choosing between wisdom's voice and folly's enticements. The 'fear of the LORD' isn't terror—it's taking God seriously enough to let His perspective shape your decisions.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What does 'the fear of the LORD' mean?

    It means reverent awe and respect for God that shapes behavior. It's not cowering in terror but recognizing God's authority, holiness, and wisdom as the starting point for all understanding.

    Why is wisdom personified as a woman?

    In Hebrew, 'wisdom' (chokmah) is a feminine noun, which naturally lends itself to female personification. The literary device makes wisdom relatable and personal—she's not an abstract concept but someone actively seeking a relationship with humanity.

    Read the full summary of Proverbs

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