Proverbs 8:26-36

26 While as yet he had not made the earth nor the fields nor the beginning of the dust of the world,

27 when he composed the heavens, I was there. When he set a compass upon the face of the depth,

28 when he established the clouds above, when he strengthened the fountains of the deep,

29 when he gave to the sea his decree that the waters should not pass his commandment, when he appointed the foundations of the earth,

30 I was with him ordering everything; I was his delight every day, being content before him at all times;

31 I am content in the circumference of his earth, and my contentment is with the sons of men.

32 Now therefore hearken unto me, O ye sons; for blessed are those that keep my ways.

33 Hearken unto chastening, and be wise; refuse it not.

34 Blessed is the man that hears me, keeping vigil at my gates, waiting at the threshold of my doors.

35 For whosoever finds me shall find life and shall obtain the will of the LORD.

36 But he that sins against me wrongs his own soul; all those that hate me love death.

Proverbs 8:26-36 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO PROVERBS 8

This chapter contains the instructions of Wisdom or Christ; showing the excellency of them, and the author of them, in opposition to the harlot and her allurements, in the preceding chapter. Christ, under the name of Wisdom, is represented as an herald, publishing the Gospel in the ministry of the word, either in person or by his servants, Pr 8:1. The places where this proclamation is made are described, Pr 8:2,3; the persons to whom, Pr 8:4,5. The excellency of the things delivered, being right things; truth, agreeably to the word of God, plain and easy to be understood, and of more worth than gold, silver, and precious stones, Pr 8:6-11. And then Wisdom, or Christ, is commended and recommended by his consummate prudence and knowledge, by his hatred of evil, and by his influence on the political affairs of kings and princes, Pr 8:12-16; and the advantages of those that are early seekers of him are pointed out; their enjoyment of his favour, of his riches, honour and righteousness; and their being led by him in right paths now, and inheriting eternal glory hereafter, Pr 8:17-21. And next follows an account of his existence from eternity as a divine Person, illustrated by a variety of phrases, Pr 8:22-29; and of his being with the Father; of his great affection for him, and complacency in him; and of Christ's wonderful delight and pleasure in the sons of men, Pr 8:30,31. And the chapter is concluded with an exhortation to them to hearken to his instructions; setting forth the happiness of those that wait on him in public ordinances, and find him; and the misery of those that hate and reject him.