Proverbs 9

CHAPTER 9

Proverbs 9:1-18 . The commendation of wisdom is continued, under the figure of a liberal host, and its provisions under that of a feast (compare Luke 14:16-24 ). The character of those who are invited is followed by a contrasted description of the rejectors of good counsel; and with the invitations of wisdom are contrasted the allurement of the wicked woman.

1. house--(compare Proverbs 8:34 ).
her--or, "its" (the house).
seven pillars--the number seven for many, or a sufficiency ( Proverbs 6:31 ).

2. mingled--to enhance the flavor ( Proverbs 23:30 , Isaiah 5:22 ).
furnished--literally, "set out," "arranged."

3. maidens--servants to invite (compare Psalms 68:11 , Isaiah 40:9 ).
highest places--ridges of heights, conspicuous places.

4-6. (Compare Proverbs 1:4 , 6:32 ). Wisdom not only supplies right but forbids wrong principles.

7, 8. shame--(Compare Proverbs 3:35 ).
a blot--or, "stain on character." Both terms denote the evil done by others to one whose faithfulness secures a wise man's love.

9. The more a wise man learns, the more he loves wisdom.

10. (Compare Proverbs 1:7 ).
of the holy--literally, "holies," persons or things, or both. This knowledge gives right perception.

11. (Compare Proverbs 3:16-18 , 4:10 ).

12. You are mainly concerned in your own conduct.

13. foolish woman--or literally, "woman of folly," specially manifested by such as are described.
clamorous--or, "noisy" ( Proverbs 7:11 ).
knoweth nothing--literally, "knoweth not what," that is, is right and proper.

14. on a seat--literally, "throne," takes a prominent place, impudently and haughtily.

15, 16. to allure those who are right-minded, and who are addressed as in Proverbs 9:4 , as
simple--that is, easily led ( Proverbs 1:4 ) and unsettled, though willing to do right.

17. The language of a proverb, meaning that forbidden delights are sweet and pleasant, as fruits of risk and danger.

18. (Compare Proverbs 2:18 Proverbs 2:19 , 7:27 ).