Proverbs 22 Study Notes

22:12 God overthrows (see “undermines” in note at 13:6) those who teach treachery (see note at 2:20-22).

22:13 This is a preposterous excuse.

22:14 The forbidden woman lures men with her words (see note at 2:16-17; cp. 7:21; 23:27-28; Jr 18:22). To be cursed by God is to experience his indignation (Ezk 22:31). The wicked will realize they are cursed when they fall (Ps 81:11-12; Rm 1:24-28).

22:15 Bound means both “tied to” and voluntarily “wrapped up” (Gn 44:30). Foolishness (from Hb ’ewiyl) is an innate quality that youth cling to (Gn 8:21; Ps 51:5). On rod, see note at 13:24.

22:16 The person who gives to the rich likely has ulterior motives (Lk 14:12).

22:17-21 This passage introduces a collection of proverbs that runs through 24:22. This is also the first of the thirty sayings. On words of the wise, see note at 1:6. These sayings were also probably Solomon’s (10:1). There are three motivations given for gaining wisdom, two practical and one theological: to be pleasing, to have confidence . . . in the Lord, and to be dependable when commissioned (v. 21; cp. 10:26; 25:13). True words promote justice. Dependable report translates the same Hebrew words as reliable words.

22:22-23 The city gate was where legal proceedings took place (24:7). God is like the ultimate defense attorney (23:11; Ps 43:1; 119:154; Jr 50:34; Mc 7:9; 1Jn 2:1). Since God is also Judge, the accuser cannot prevail (Rv 12:10).

22:24-25 A hot-tempered one is constantly in trouble (15:18; 19:19; 29:22); his companion could get trapped (12:13; 18:7; 29:6).

22:26-27 On security for loans, see note at 6:1-2.

22:28 On boundary marker, see note at 23:10-11.

22:29 The wise learn from what they see (24:32). To be skilled is to be experienced, learned, efficient, and accurate in one’s vocation (Ezr 7:6; Ps 45:1; “quick” in Is 16:5). To stand in a ruler’s presence is to offer oneself to be recognized or commissioned (Ex 8:20; Dt 31:14; Jb 1:6; Zch 6:5).