Proverbs 8:28-36

28 when he placed the clouds in the sky, when he opened the springs of the ocean
29 and ordered the waters of the sea to rise no further than he said. I was there when he laid the earth's foundations.
30 I was beside him like an architect, I was his daily source of joy, always happy in his presence -
31 happy with the world and pleased with the human race.
32 "Now, young people, listen to me. 1 Do as I say, and you will be happy.
33 Listen to what you are taught. Be wise; do not neglect it.
34 Those who listen to me will be happy - those who stay at my door every day, waiting at the entrance to my home.
35 Those who find me find life, and the Lord will be pleased with them.
36 Those who do not find me hurt themselves; anyone who hates me loves death."

Proverbs 8:28-36 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.

Cross References 1

  • 1. +28.32Ben Sira 14.20-27.

Footnotes 1

  • [a]. an architect; [or] a little child.
Scripture taken from the Good News Translation - Second Edition, Copyright 1992 by American Bible Society. Used by Permission.