Proverbs 1:1-7

The first 7 verses are an introduction to the whole book of Proverbs, providing its purpose. The book is a collection of wisdom passages that was brought together over time. A proverb is a short saying expressing a certain truth.

v.1 Superscription. Most of the book is credited to King Solomon, but there were other contributers.
v.2-3 Description of the qualities that the book would impart on its readers (wisdom, discipline, insight, righteousness, justice, and equity).
v.4 Addresses the "simple" and "youth" and describes further qualities the book is to impart (prudence, knowledge, discretion).
v.5-6 Finally the book also addresses the wise in order to increase their understanding of difficult sayings and proverbs.
v.7 The motto of the book of proverbs.

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge;
fools despise wisdom and instruction.

The book of proverbs then is concerned with the formation of character through the cultivation of wisdom in the reader.

Read Proverbs 1:1-7