COLLECTION 3: The Thirty Sayings of the Wise
(22.17-24)
A. Prologue: (22.17-21) [# 1]
B. B. Section A: A Decalogue of sayings about Wealth (22.22-23.11) [#'s 2-11]
C. Section B: An Obedient Son (23.22-24.2) [#'s 12-20]
D. Section C: Trying Times (#'s 24.3-22)
1. Strength in Distress (24.3-12) [#'s 21-25]
2. Prohibitions against Involvement with the Wicked (24.13-22) [#'s 26-30]
#2/22.22-23 Avoid Persecuting
#3/22.24-25 Avoid Hotheads
#4/22.26-27 Avoid Pledges
#5/22.28 Sacred Landmarks
——————————————————————————-
# 6/22.29 Seek Excellence
# 7/23.1-3 Ruler’s Meal (Moderation)
# 8/23.4-5 Fleeting Riches
# 9/23.6-8 Misers Meal
#10/23.9 Fools
——————————————————————————-
#11/23.10-11 Poor’s Redeemer
This root connotes lowness as a state or a goal. It occurs sixty-two times. Used metaphorically, the verb describes a state of deprivation which in its extremity issues in a cry to God. --Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament
oppress... (Piel) to crush
afflicted... (ʿānî) poor, afflicted. The ʿānî, although frequently in synonymous parallelism with ʾebyôn and dal, differs from both in that it connotes some kind of disability or distress. In Deut 24:14–15 the hired servant is described as ʾebyôn and ʿānî. Israel is told not to oppress their hired servant by withholding the wages due him because he is ʿānî. Furthermore, if he is oppressed he may call on God his defender. We see that financially the ʿānî lives from day to day, and that socially he is defenseless and subject to oppression. --Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament
the gate... Heb “in the gate” (so KJV); NAB, NASB, NRSV “at the gate.” The “gate” of the city was the center of activity, the place of business as well as the place for settling legal disputes. The language of the next verse suggests a legal setting, so “court” is an appropriate translation here. --NET Bible Translation Notes
Four Hebrew words for "poor."
*1. The principle that punishment should be equivalent or identical to the offense committed. --http://www.thefreedictionary.com/talion
The verb is used again only in Mal. 3.8ff. --A Cohen in Soncino Books of the Bible (Will a man rob God? Yet you have robbed Me!)
"Robbers" deceive themselves if they think the poor have no protector." --Waltke in NICOT
-> The Priests teaching the Law: Exodus 22
22 "You shall not afflict any widow or fatherless child. 23 If you afflict them in any way, and they cry at all to Me, I will surely hear their cry; 24 and My wrath will become hot, and I will kill you with the sword; your wives shall be widows, and your children fatherless.
-> The Prophets with a warning and rebuke Isaiah 10.1-3
1 "Woe to those who decree unrighteous decrees, Who write misfortune, Which they have prescribed 2 To rob the needy of justice, And to take what is right from the poor of My people, That widows may be their prey, And that they may rob the fatherless. 3 What will you do in the day of punishment, And in the desolation which will come from afar? To whom will you flee for help?...
2. We need to move from the idea that legal = morally right. Just because you can doesn’t mean you should. (We should also probably move from teaching our children to have a primary motivation of being fearful of the police and being arrested.)
3. The fear of the Lord is the awareness that God is watching, weighing, and rewarding all that I do, say, and think.
Make no friendship with an angry man,
And with a furious man do not go,
Lest you learn his ways
And set a snare for your soul.
By the act of breathing, emotions can be expressed. Perhaps it was observed that the nose dilates in anger. God is said to be “ʾerek ʾappayim” (lit. “long of anger,” i.e. long before getting angry) --NET Bible Translation Notes
lit: at master, possessor of a nose whose physical characteristics express anger"; cf. 14:17; 15:1), whose judgment is clouded by irrational thought and who loses all sense of proportion, acts impetuously... --Waltke in NICOT
furious... 1. heat (fever, venom, poison (fig.) 2. burning anger, rage --BLB
learn... The verb פֶּן־תֶּאֱלַף (pen-te’elaf) is translated “lest you learn.” The idea is more precisely “become familiar with his ways.” The construction indicates that if one associates with such people he will become like them (cf. TEV “you might learn their habits”). --NET Bible Translation Notes
snare... yāqōš and its derivatives occur forty times. It refers to setting a trap to catch some prey, but more frequently in a metaphorical sense of entrapping people. -- Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament
the LORD... has built in the hothead's ways his own self-destruction (cf. 1:16; 29:6) --Waltke in NICOT
2. Help surround your children with positive influences (children and adults). Talk to your children about their friends. You should make it your business to know who their friends are. (Who did you eat lunch with? Who did you play with? Give them space to talk (even if you don’t like what you hear) and listen to them.)
Do not be one of those who shakes hands in a pledge,
One of those who is surety for debts;
If you have nothing with which to pay,
Why should he take away your bed from under you?
Are surety for debts… lit. bind (or pledge) themselves for (other persons’) loans. –Toy in The International Critical Commentary
To strike hands is equivalent to, to be responsible to any one for another, to stake one's goods and honour for him, Proverbs 6:1; Proverbs 11:15; Proverbs 17:18 - in a word, ערב, seq. acc., to pledge oneself for him (Genesis 43:9), or for the loan received by him, משּׁאה, Deuteronomy 24:10 (from השּׁה, with ב, of the person and accus. of the thing: to lend something to one on interest). The proverb warns against being one of such sureties (write בּערבים with Cod. 1294, and old impressions such as the Venice, 1521), against acting as they do; for why wouldest thou come to this, that when thou cast not pay (שׁלּם, to render a full equivalent reckoning, and, generally, to pay, Proverbs 6:31), -- The Keil & Delitzsch Commentary on the Old Testament
If you have nothing... future financial reversals may expose him to losing everything he owns. --Waltke in NICOT Cf. James 3:13-17
bed... The “bed” may be a metonymy of adjunct , meaning the garment that covers the bed (e.g., Exod 22:26). At any rate, it represents the individual’s last possession (like the English expression “the shirt off his back”). --NET Bible Translation Notes
A harsh creditor might ignore the humane regulations of Deut. xxiv.10ff., which, legally apply only to the debtor, not the guarantor (Ibn Nachmiash). --A Cohen in Soncino Books of the Bible
Deut. 24.10ff 10 "When you lend your brother anything, you shall not go into his house to get his pledge. 11 You shall stand outside, and the man to whom you lend shall bring the pledge out to you. 12 And if the man is poor, you shall not keep his pledge overnight. 13 You shall in any case return the pledge to him again when the sun goes down, that he may sleep in his own garment and bless you; and it shall be righteousness to you before the Lord your God.
2. How do we balance trusting the Lord and being presumptuous? James 3:13-17
3. How do we balance the welfare of our families and priorities with giving from our need?
Deuteronomy 19.14
(11-13 One who lies in wait for his neighbor will be killed. )
14 "You shall not remove your neighbor's landmark, which the men of old have set, in your inheritance which you will inherit in the land that the Lord your God is giving you to possess.
(15-17 False witnesses)
Deuteronomy 27.17
16 'Cursed is the one who treats his father or his mother with contempt.'And all the people shall say, 'Amen!'
17 'Cursed is the one who moves his neighbor's landmark.'And all the people shall say, 'Amen!'
18 'Cursed is the one who makes the blind to wander off the road.'And all the people shall say, 'Amen!'
19 'Cursed is the one who perverts the justice due the stranger, the fatherless, and widow.'And all the people shall say, 'Amen!'
2. The fear of the Lord is the awareness that God is watching, weighing, and rewarding all that I do, say, and think.
1. What do you observe about your children at the dinner table? The dinner table is a good time to train for efficient procedure, but it is also a place where children develop and model character. Table etiquette can usually be tied to being considerate to others and showing self-control, etc. Do you talk with your children about the “why” of what you expect at the table.
2. How formal are your meals? It would be a good idea to have occasional more formal meals to make sure your children know the proper use of silverware and table etiquette for when they eat in formal situations. If you plan for them to excel, you should expect that they will know how to conduct themselves at a formal meal or banquet.
3. If your children (or you) are hungry, sometimes a small snack can help take the edge off before you are at someone’s house, have company, (or go shopping) etc.
Wealth is a mirage. This saying is similar to the much longer seventh saying of Amenempose. --Garrett in New American Commentary
Pro 23:4-5
Do not overwork to be rich;
Because of your own understanding, cease!
Will you set your eyes on that which is not?
For riches certainly make themselves wings;
They fly away like an eagle toward heaven.
rich… (Hiphil) to enrich On the one hand, riches are said to be the blessing of Yahweh to the righteous… Conversely, riches may lead to self-dependence rather than dependence upon Yahweh
Heb “from your understanding cease.” In the context this means that the person should have enough understanding to stop wearing himself out trying to be rich (cf. NRSV “be wise enough to desist”).
understanding…
cease... Heb “from your understanding cease.” In the context this means that the person should have enough understanding to stop wearing himself out trying to be rich (cf. NRSV “be wise enough to desist”). --NET Bible Translation Notes
Matthew 6.19-21 Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
2. How does the understanding that riches are from God and belong to God affect my attitude toward and pursuit of riches? Ephesians 4.28
3. How do you balance the teaching here with the many proverbs that promote diligence and condemn sloth?
Proverbs 6.6ff Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise. Without having any chief, officer, or ruler, she prepares her bread in summer and gathers her food in harvest.
Proverbs 13:4 The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, while the soul of the diligent is richly supplied.
Prov. 10:4-5 A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes rich. A child who gathers in summer is prudent, but a child who sleeps in harvest brings shame.
Prov. 24:30-34 I passed by the field of one who was lazy, by the vineyard of a stupid person; and see, it was all overgrown with thorns; the ground was covered with nettles, and its stone wall was broken down. Then I saw and considered it; I looked and received instruction. A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want, like an armed warrior.
Proverbs 27:23 ESV 23 Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds, 24 For riches are not forever, Nor does a crown endure to all generations. 25 When the hay is removed, and the tender grass shows itself, And the herbs of the mountains are gathered in, 26 The lambs will provide your clothing, And the goats the price of a field; 27 You shall have enough goats' milk for your food, For the food of your household, And the nourishment of your maidservants.
A. Prologue: (22.17-21) [# 1]
B. B. Section A: A Decalogue of sayings about Wealth (22.22-23.11) [#'s 2-11]
C. Section B: An Obedient Son (23.22-24.2) [#'s 12-20]
D. Section C: Trying Times (#'s 24.3-22)
1. Strength in Distress (24.3-12) [#'s 21-25]
2. Prohibitions against Involvement with the Wicked (24.13-22) [#'s 26-30]
#2/22.22-23 Avoid Persecuting
#3/22.24-25 Avoid Hotheads
#4/22.26-27 Avoid Pledges
#5/22.28 Sacred Landmarks
——————————————————————————-
# 6/22.29 Seek Excellence
# 7/23.1-3 Ruler’s Meal (Moderation)
# 8/23.4-5 Fleeting Riches
# 9/23.6-8 Misers Meal
#10/23.9 Fools
——————————————————————————-
#11/23.10-11 Poor’s Redeemer
SAYING NUMBER TWO: Avoid Persecuting - 22.22-23 -----------------------------------------
Robbing or oppressing the poor is easy because they are defenseless. But this makes the crime tempting as well as contemptible. What is envisioned may be in bounds legally (just) but out of bounds morally. --NET Bible Study Notes
Robbing or oppressing the poor is easy because they are defenseless. But this makes the crime tempting as well as contemptible. What is envisioned may be in bounds legally (just) but out of bounds morally. --NET Bible Study Notes
22.22 Nor
Do not rob oppress
the poor the afflicted
because he is poor, at the gate;
Do not rob oppress
the poor the afflicted
because he is poor, at the gate;
poor... referring
to one of the lower classes in Israel (cf. II Kgs 24:14; 25:12). In dāl the
idea of physical (material) deprivation predominates. —http://tulsabible.blogspot.com/2013/01/the-poor-among-us-130127pmtbc.html
weak. Hebrew dal, a man who is defenseless
through poverty or physical disability (Daath Mikra).
--A Cohen in Soncino Books of the BibleThis root connotes lowness as a state or a goal. It occurs sixty-two times. Used metaphorically, the verb describes a state of deprivation which in its extremity issues in a cry to God. --Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament
oppress... (Piel) to crush
afflicted... (ʿānî) poor, afflicted. The ʿānî, although frequently in synonymous parallelism with ʾebyôn and dal, differs from both in that it connotes some kind of disability or distress. In Deut 24:14–15 the hired servant is described as ʾebyôn and ʿānî. Israel is told not to oppress their hired servant by withholding the wages due him because he is ʿānî. Furthermore, if he is oppressed he may call on God his defender. We see that financially the ʿānî lives from day to day, and that socially he is defenseless and subject to oppression. --Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament
the gate... Heb “in the gate” (so KJV); NAB, NASB, NRSV “at the gate.” The “gate” of the city was the center of activity, the place of business as well as the place for settling legal disputes. The language of the next verse suggests a legal setting, so “court” is an appropriate translation here. --NET Bible Translation Notes
Four Hebrew words for "poor."
22.23
For the LORD And
will plead their cause, plunder the soul of those who plunder them.
For the LORD And
will plead their cause, plunder the soul of those who plunder them.
plead... The
construction uses the verb יָרִיב (yariv) with
its cognate accusative. It can mean “to strive,” but here it probably
means “to argue a case, plead a case” (cf. KJV, NASB, NIV, NRSV). How
the Lord will do this is not specified – either through righteous people or by
direct intervention. --NET Bible Translation Notes
plunder...קָבַע qava’, “to rob; to
spoil; to plunder”) is used here in both places to reflect the principle of talionic* justice. What
the oppressors did to the poor will be turned back on them by the Lord.
--NET Bible Translation Notes
*1. The principle that punishment should be equivalent or identical to the offense committed. --http://www.thefreedictionary.com/talion
The verb is used again only in Mal. 3.8ff. --A Cohen in Soncino Books of the Bible (Will a man rob God? Yet you have robbed Me!)
"Robbers" deceive themselves if they think the poor have no protector." --Waltke in NICOT
-> The Priests teaching the Law: Exodus 22
22 "You shall not afflict any widow or fatherless child. 23 If you afflict them in any way, and they cry at all to Me, I will surely hear their cry; 24 and My wrath will become hot, and I will kill you with the sword; your wives shall be widows, and your children fatherless.
-> The Prophets with a warning and rebuke Isaiah 10.1-3
1 "Woe to those who decree unrighteous decrees, Who write misfortune, Which they have prescribed 2 To rob the needy of justice, And to take what is right from the poor of My people, That widows may be their prey, And that they may rob the fatherless. 3 What will you do in the day of punishment, And in the desolation which will come from afar? To whom will you flee for help?...
APPLICATIONS:
1. Power is a loan from God.
Those with power must use it for God’s honor. Are we protectors or predators?2. We need to move from the idea that legal = morally right. Just because you can doesn’t mean you should. (We should also probably move from teaching our children to have a primary motivation of being fearful of the police and being arrested.)
3. The fear of the Lord is the awareness that God is watching, weighing, and rewarding all that I do, say, and think.
SAYING NUMBER THREE: Avoid Hotheads - 22.24-25 -------------------------------------------------
...the point is that one should be careful about choosing friends because they inevitable affect us.
This
shows a lack of self-discipline and an absence of emotional intelligence. --Tremper Longman III in BCOTWP...the point is that one should be careful about choosing friends because they inevitable affect us.
Make no friendship with an angry man,
And with a furious man do not go,
Lest you learn his ways
And set a snare for your soul.
friendship... (rāʿâ), associate with, be a friend of. --Theological Wordbook
of the Old Testament
angry... Heb. 'aph 1. nostril, nose, face; 2.
anger --BLBBy the act of breathing, emotions can be expressed. Perhaps it was observed that the nose dilates in anger. God is said to be “ʾerek ʾappayim” (lit. “long of anger,” i.e. long before getting angry) --NET Bible Translation Notes
lit: at master, possessor of a nose whose physical characteristics express anger"; cf. 14:17; 15:1), whose judgment is clouded by irrational thought and who loses all sense of proportion, acts impetuously... --Waltke in NICOT
furious... 1. heat (fever, venom, poison (fig.) 2. burning anger, rage --BLB
learn... The verb פֶּן־תֶּאֱלַף (pen-te’elaf) is translated “lest you learn.” The idea is more precisely “become familiar with his ways.” The construction indicates that if one associates with such people he will become like them (cf. TEV “you might learn their habits”). --NET Bible Translation Notes
snare... yāqōš and its derivatives occur forty times. It refers to setting a trap to catch some prey, but more frequently in a metaphorical sense of entrapping people. -- Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament
the LORD... has built in the hothead's ways his own self-destruction (cf. 1:16; 29:6) --Waltke in NICOT
APPLICATIONS:
1. This highlights the importance of good friends. (Birds of a
feather flock together.)
Look for friends like what you want to be. Understand and teach the difference between a
friend (2 Cor. 6.14-15) and an acquaintance 1 Cor. 5.9-13). 2. Help surround your children with positive influences (children and adults). Talk to your children about their friends. You should make it your business to know who their friends are. (Who did you eat lunch with? Who did you play with? Give them space to talk (even if you don’t like what you hear) and listen to them.)
SAYING NUMBER FOUR: Avoid Surety - 22.27-28 ------------------------------------------------
Solomon previously warned of the folly of making promises to cover the debts of others (6:1-5; 11:15; 17:18; 20:16). This is a good way to lose what one has. The unforgiving servant in Jesus' parable consigned his
fellow servant to prison until he could repay his whole debt (Matt.
18:30). –Thomas Constable’s Expository Notes on ProverbsSolomon previously warned of the folly of making promises to cover the debts of others (6:1-5; 11:15; 17:18; 20:16). This is a good way to lose what one has. The unforgiving servant in Jesus' parable consigned his
Do not be one of those who shakes hands in a pledge,
One of those who is surety for debts;
If you have nothing with which to pay,
Why should he take away your bed from under you?
shakes hands in a
pledge... (tāqaʿ) blow, clap, strike,
sound. The verb bears three distinct but related meanings: (1) “thrust,
pound”; (2) “blow (a horn)”; (3) “clap (hands).” ...striking hands
with someone else (serving a function similar to our handshake) signified
pledging oneself as a collateral in a business arrangement (Job 17:3; Prov 6:1;
11:15; 17:18; 22:26). --Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament
surety… to take
on pledge, go surety for –blueletterbible.org Are surety for debts… lit. bind (or pledge) themselves for (other persons’) loans. –Toy in The International Critical Commentary
To strike hands is equivalent to, to be responsible to any one for another, to stake one's goods and honour for him, Proverbs 6:1; Proverbs 11:15; Proverbs 17:18 - in a word, ערב, seq. acc., to pledge oneself for him (Genesis 43:9), or for the loan received by him, משּׁאה, Deuteronomy 24:10 (from השּׁה, with ב, of the person and accus. of the thing: to lend something to one on interest). The proverb warns against being one of such sureties (write בּערבים with Cod. 1294, and old impressions such as the Venice, 1521), against acting as they do; for why wouldest thou come to this, that when thou cast not pay (שׁלּם, to render a full equivalent reckoning, and, generally, to pay, Proverbs 6:31), -- The Keil & Delitzsch Commentary on the Old Testament
If you have nothing... future financial reversals may expose him to losing everything he owns. --Waltke in NICOT Cf. James 3:13-17
bed... The “bed” may be a metonymy of adjunct , meaning the garment that covers the bed (e.g., Exod 22:26). At any rate, it represents the individual’s last possession (like the English expression “the shirt off his back”). --NET Bible Translation Notes
A harsh creditor might ignore the humane regulations of Deut. xxiv.10ff., which, legally apply only to the debtor, not the guarantor (Ibn Nachmiash). --A Cohen in Soncino Books of the Bible
Deut. 24.10ff 10 "When you lend your brother anything, you shall not go into his house to get his pledge. 11 You shall stand outside, and the man to whom you lend shall bring the pledge out to you. 12 And if the man is poor, you shall not keep his pledge overnight. 13 You shall in any case return the pledge to him again when the sun goes down, that he may sleep in his own garment and bless you; and it shall be righteousness to you before the Lord your God.
APPLICATIONS:
1. How do we teach
our children to be compassionate and wise?2. How do we balance trusting the Lord and being presumptuous? James 3:13-17
3. How do we balance the welfare of our families and priorities with giving from our need?
SAYING NUMBER FIVE: Landmarks - 22.29 -----------------------------------------------------------
In Israel, land was held from God, and was inalienable (Lv. 25:23; Dt. 19:14); in every society certain heritages are similarly not the property of any one generation, but no law will protect them (cf. 1 Kings 21; Isaiah 5:8) when integrity Is absent. --Kidner in TOTC
It seems to me that moving the landmarks shows a disregard and lack of respect for the foundational principles of the society that God had established whenever they conflicted with personal interests.
“While greed is the likeliest motive for such a sin (as, explicitly, in 23:10, 11), here the implied stress is on its highhandedness. In Israel, land was held from God, and was inalienable (Lev. 25:23; Deut. 19:14); in every society certain heritages are similarly not the property of any one generation. But no law will protect them (cf. 1 Kgs 21; Isa. 5:8) when integrity is absent. Cf. 23:10; also Amenemope, chapter 6:1ff.” --Derek Kidner in TOTC
In Israel, land was held from God, and was inalienable (Lv. 25:23; Dt. 19:14); in every society certain heritages are similarly not the property of any one generation, but no law will protect them (cf. 1 Kings 21; Isaiah 5:8) when integrity Is absent. --Kidner in TOTC
It seems to me that moving the landmarks shows a disregard and lack of respect for the foundational principles of the society that God had established whenever they conflicted with personal interests.
“While greed is the likeliest motive for such a sin (as, explicitly, in 23:10, 11), here the implied stress is on its highhandedness. In Israel, land was held from God, and was inalienable (Lev. 25:23; Deut. 19:14); in every society certain heritages are similarly not the property of any one generation. But no law will protect them (cf. 1 Kgs 21; Isa. 5:8) when integrity is absent. Cf. 23:10; also Amenemope, chapter 6:1ff.” --Derek Kidner in TOTC
Do not remove the ancient landmark
Which your fathers have set.
Which your fathers have set.
landmark... Moving a boundary
stone was (and still is) a major problem. The boundaries that were
established by the forefathers were to be preserved, but no law would stop such
violations if people lacked integrity (e.g., Deut 19:14; 27:17; 1 Kgs 21:16-19). Boundaries
in Israel were sacred because God owned the land and he apportioned the
property to the tribes. To extend one’s property illegally by moving a
neighbor’s boundary marker was a violation of covenant and oath. Of course,
disputes could arise when both sides claim their ancestors established a
boundary. --NET Bible Study Notes
Fathers have set... refers to the time when Joshua distributed the land
by casting the sacred lot (Joshua 14-19). Elsewhere in the ancient
near East boundaries stood under the protection of the god of the land... --Waltke in
NICOT Deuteronomy 19.14
(11-13 One who lies in wait for his neighbor will be killed. )
14 "You shall not remove your neighbor's landmark, which the men of old have set, in your inheritance which you will inherit in the land that the Lord your God is giving you to possess.
(15-17 False witnesses)
Deuteronomy 27.17
16 'Cursed is the one who treats his father or his mother with contempt.'And all the people shall say, 'Amen!'
17 'Cursed is the one who moves his neighbor's landmark.'And all the people shall say, 'Amen!'
18 'Cursed is the one who makes the blind to wander off the road.'And all the people shall say, 'Amen!'
19 'Cursed is the one who perverts the justice due the stranger, the fatherless, and widow.'And all the people shall say, 'Amen!'
APPLICATIONS:
1. Respect for
the law and principles over our own ambitions.2. The fear of the Lord is the awareness that God is watching, weighing, and rewarding all that I do, say, and think.
SAYING NUMBER SIX: Excellence 22.29
--------------------------------------------------------
Saying 6 stands apart from the rest of the Decalogue in its positive modeling of "success" and from the preceding subunit by being a so-called tricola... --Waltke in NICOT
Anyone who puts his workmanship before his prospects towers above the thrusters and climbers of the adjacent paragraphs. Cf. verse 11... (Amenemope, chapter 30:10,11 - his final saying -- gives a similar assurance to the experienced scribe.) -- Kidner in TOTC
22.29
Do you see a man who excels in his work?
He will stand before kings;
He will not stand before unknown men.
Do you see... The question "do you see" (Aa) presents the condition, namely, keeping a sharp lookout for a competent person to emulate... --Waltke in NICOT
excels... Four occurrences; AV translates as “ready” twice, “diligent” once, and “hasting” once. 1 quick, prompt, skilled, ready. --James Strong, Enhanced Strong’s Lexicon
The word translated “skilled” is general enough to apply to any crafts; but it may refer to a scribe or an official (R. N. Whybray, Proverbs [CBC], 134). --NET Bible Translation Notes
stand before... Enter into the service of (Metsudath David). --A Cohen in Soncino Books of the Bible
unknown men... mean. More lit. 'obscure' employers of lowly station (Methsudath David). --A Cohen in Soncino Books of the Bible
APPLICATIONS:
Saying 6 stands apart from the rest of the Decalogue in its positive modeling of "success" and from the preceding subunit by being a so-called tricola... --Waltke in NICOT
Anyone who puts his workmanship before his prospects towers above the thrusters and climbers of the adjacent paragraphs. Cf. verse 11... (Amenemope, chapter 30:10,11 - his final saying -- gives a similar assurance to the experienced scribe.) -- Kidner in TOTC
22.29
Do you see a man who excels in his work?
He will stand before kings;
He will not stand before unknown men.
Do you see... The question "do you see" (Aa) presents the condition, namely, keeping a sharp lookout for a competent person to emulate... --Waltke in NICOT
excels... Four occurrences; AV translates as “ready” twice, “diligent” once, and “hasting” once. 1 quick, prompt, skilled, ready. --James Strong, Enhanced Strong’s Lexicon
The word translated “skilled” is general enough to apply to any crafts; but it may refer to a scribe or an official (R. N. Whybray, Proverbs [CBC], 134). --NET Bible Translation Notes
stand before... Enter into the service of (Metsudath David). --A Cohen in Soncino Books of the Bible
unknown men... mean. More lit. 'obscure' employers of lowly station (Methsudath David). --A Cohen in Soncino Books of the Bible
APPLICATIONS:
1. Colossians 3.17, & 22-25 give the perspective of our tasks as being for the Lord, and by extension worship. Titus 2.9-10 give some practical character aspects of our work that help us to adorn the doctrine of God.
2. Do we know out children's abilities a encourage them to do their best? (The level of excellence that is important for that job, i.e. You would clean a barn and operating room differently.) I remember making an "A" in a class and getting serious grief from my mom because I also has a low "effort score" in the class. It seem horribly unfair at the time, but the years have helped me to appreciate her point.
3. How do we fine a balance between "participation trophies" and pushing effort and excellence in sports? How do age and temperament affect that balance?
---------------------------------------------------
#' 7-9 Together, the three teachings of 23:1-8
make it clear that meals are about a lot more than food. ...so here food and
appetite are used as metaphors for the attitude one brings to riches
and the kind of "teaching" on desires. --Koptak in NIVAC
SAYING NUMBER SEVEN: Ruler's Meals - 23.1-3 ---------------------------------------------------
Verses 1-3 form the sixth saying about being cautious before rulers (cf. Instruction of Amememope, chap. 23, 23:13-18). One should not get too familiar with rulers, for they always have ulterior motives. The Mishnah cites Gamaliel as warning that a ruler only draws someone into his court for his purpose, but in their day of trouble he will not be there to help them (m. Abot 2:3). --NET Bible Study Notes
The rich do not give away their favors for free. they want something in return, and it is generally much more than what they have invested. --Garrett in New American Commentary
Others see it as advice to avoid accustoming oneself to luxuries one may not be able to enjoy in the future (Saadia Gaon). --A Cohen in Soncino Books of the Bible
When you sit down to eat with a ruler,
Consider carefully what is before you;
And put a knife to your throat
If you are a man given to appetite.
Do not desire his delicacies,
For they are deceptive food.
what is before you... The writer seems to imply that at a governor's table a large variety of dishes is set before the guests; so be careful in making a polite selection and do not indulge in over-eating (J. Kimichi). --A Cohen in Soncino Books of the Bible
The NIV note indicates that the line may be translated "Who [not 'what'] is before you" since the relative pronoun ʾaser is ambiguous. --Koptak in NIVAC
And put a knife to your throat... Said to be an Oriental idiom fo r'practise self-restraint.' ... (Daath Mikra). --A Cohen in Soncino Books of the Bible
consider... The construction uses the imperfect tense of instruction with the infinitive absolute to emphasize the careful discernment required on such occasions. Cf. NIV “note well”; NLT “pay attention.” --NET Bible Translation Notes
put a knife to your throat... The expression “put a knife to your throat” is an idiom that means “curb your appetite” or “control yourself” (cf. TEV). The instruction was from a time when people dealt with all-powerful tyrants. To enter the presence of such a person. --NET Bible Study Notes
Putting a knife to the thoat I not a threat of death but rather holding a knife to one's desire, for the word nepes can mean "throut" or appetite." (Put a blade to your throat if you are not master of your appetite.) --Koptak in NIVAC
appetite... Heb “lord of appetite.” The idiom בַּעַל נֶפֶשׁ (ba’al nefesh) refers to someone who possesses a large appetite (cf. NAB “a ravenous appetite”). and indulge one’s appetites would be to take a very high risk. --NET Bible Translation Notes
deceptive food... lit. 'bread of lies' --A Cohen in Soncino Books of the Bible
SAYING NUMBER SEVEN: Ruler's Meals - 23.1-3 ---------------------------------------------------
Verses 1-3 form the sixth saying about being cautious before rulers (cf. Instruction of Amememope, chap. 23, 23:13-18). One should not get too familiar with rulers, for they always have ulterior motives. The Mishnah cites Gamaliel as warning that a ruler only draws someone into his court for his purpose, but in their day of trouble he will not be there to help them (m. Abot 2:3). --NET Bible Study Notes
The rich do not give away their favors for free. they want something in return, and it is generally much more than what they have invested. --Garrett in New American Commentary
Others see it as advice to avoid accustoming oneself to luxuries one may not be able to enjoy in the future (Saadia Gaon). --A Cohen in Soncino Books of the Bible
When you sit down to eat with a ruler,
Consider carefully what is before you;
And put a knife to your throat
If you are a man given to appetite.
Do not desire his delicacies,
For they are deceptive food.
what is before you... The writer seems to imply that at a governor's table a large variety of dishes is set before the guests; so be careful in making a polite selection and do not indulge in over-eating (J. Kimichi). --A Cohen in Soncino Books of the Bible
The NIV note indicates that the line may be translated "Who [not 'what'] is before you" since the relative pronoun ʾaser is ambiguous. --Koptak in NIVAC
And put a knife to your throat... Said to be an Oriental idiom fo r'practise self-restraint.' ... (Daath Mikra). --A Cohen in Soncino Books of the Bible
consider... The construction uses the imperfect tense of instruction with the infinitive absolute to emphasize the careful discernment required on such occasions. Cf. NIV “note well”; NLT “pay attention.” --NET Bible Translation Notes
put a knife to your throat... The expression “put a knife to your throat” is an idiom that means “curb your appetite” or “control yourself” (cf. TEV). The instruction was from a time when people dealt with all-powerful tyrants. To enter the presence of such a person. --NET Bible Study Notes
Putting a knife to the thoat I not a threat of death but rather holding a knife to one's desire, for the word nepes can mean "throut" or appetite." (Put a blade to your throat if you are not master of your appetite.) --Koptak in NIVAC
appetite... Heb “lord of appetite.” The idiom בַּעַל נֶפֶשׁ (ba’al nefesh) refers to someone who possesses a large appetite (cf. NAB “a ravenous appetite”). and indulge one’s appetites would be to take a very high risk. --NET Bible Translation Notes
deceptive food... lit. 'bread of lies' --A Cohen in Soncino Books of the Bible
APPLICATIONS:
…dinning is actually an opportunity
for people to manifest the type of self-control that demonstrates wisdom. --Tremper
Longman III in BCOTWP1. What do you observe about your children at the dinner table? The dinner table is a good time to train for efficient procedure, but it is also a place where children develop and model character. Table etiquette can usually be tied to being considerate to others and showing self-control, etc. Do you talk with your children about the “why” of what you expect at the table.
2. How formal are your meals? It would be a good idea to have occasional more formal meals to make sure your children know the proper use of silverware and table etiquette for when they eat in formal situations. If you plan for them to excel, you should expect that they will know how to conduct themselves at a formal meal or banquet.
3. If your children (or you) are hungry, sometimes a small snack can help take the edge off before you are at someone’s house, have company, (or go shopping) etc.
SAYING NUMBER EIGHT: Riches 23.4-5 -----------------------------------------------------------
…this proverb helps people put riches in a proper perspective. (Matt 6.19) --Tremper Longman III in BCOTWP
These two verses on riches develop the
theme of desire and deception, so the connection with the ruler's table. 23:1-3
is clear. --Koptak in NIVAC…this proverb helps people put riches in a proper perspective. (Matt 6.19) --Tremper Longman III in BCOTWP
Wealth is a mirage. This saying is similar to the much longer seventh saying of Amenempose. --Garrett in New American Commentary
Pro 23:4-5
Do not overwork to be rich;
Because of your own understanding, cease!
Will you set your eyes on that which is not?
For riches certainly make themselves wings;
They fly away like an eagle toward heaven.
rich… (Hiphil) to enrich On the one hand, riches are said to be the blessing of Yahweh to the righteous… Conversely, riches may lead to self-dependence rather than dependence upon Yahweh
Heb “from your understanding cease.” In the context this means that the person should have enough understanding to stop wearing himself out trying to be rich (cf. NRSV “be wise enough to desist”).
understanding…
cease... Heb “from your understanding cease.” In the context this means that the person should have enough understanding to stop wearing himself out trying to be rich (cf. NRSV “be wise enough to desist”). --NET Bible Translation Notes
Matthew 6.19-21 Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
APPLICATION:
1. What reason does this wise saying give for
not becoming weary in the pursuit of riches?
Are there others? 2. How does the understanding that riches are from God and belong to God affect my attitude toward and pursuit of riches? Ephesians 4.28
3. How do you balance the teaching here with the many proverbs that promote diligence and condemn sloth?
Proverbs 6.6ff Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise. Without having any chief, officer, or ruler, she prepares her bread in summer and gathers her food in harvest.
Proverbs 13:4 The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, while the soul of the diligent is richly supplied.
Prov. 10:4-5 A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes rich. A child who gathers in summer is prudent, but a child who sleeps in harvest brings shame.
Prov. 24:30-34 I passed by the field of one who was lazy, by the vineyard of a stupid person; and see, it was all overgrown with thorns; the ground was covered with nettles, and its stone wall was broken down. Then I saw and considered it; I looked and received instruction. A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want, like an armed warrior.
Proverbs 27:23 ESV 23 Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds, 24 For riches are not forever, Nor does a crown endure to all generations. 25 When the hay is removed, and the tender grass shows itself, And the herbs of the mountains are gathered in, 26 The lambs will provide your clothing, And the goats the price of a field; 27 You shall have enough goats' milk for your food, For the food of your household, And the nourishment of your maidservants.
SAYING NUMBER EIGHT: Riches 23.4-5
-----------------------------------------------------------
…this proverb helps people put riches in a proper perspective. (Matt 6.19) --Tremper Longman III in BCOTWP
…this proverb helps people put riches in a proper perspective. (Matt 6.19) --Tremper Longman III in BCOTWP
These two verses on riches develop the theme of desire
and deception, so the connection with the ruler's table. 23:1-3 is clear.
--Koptak in NIVAC
Wealth is a mirage. This saying is similar to the much longer seventh saying of Amenempose. --Garrett in New American Commentary
Derived independently from trust in the Lord that leads to acts of righteousness toward the poor and needy, money is associated with self-ambition and envy, and that in turn leads to disorders such as anxiety, discontent, and all sorts of evil practices (Eccl. 5:8-12[7-11]; 1 Timothy 6:6-10; Jas 3:13-16).
Pro 23:4-5
Do not overwork to be rich;
Because of your own understanding, cease!
Will you set your eyes on that which is not?
For riches certainly make themselves wings;
They fly away like an eagle toward heaven.
rich… (Hiphil) to enrich On the one hand, riches are said to be the blessing of Yahweh to the righteous… Conversely, riches may lead to self-dependence rather than dependence upon Yahweh
Wealth is a mirage. This saying is similar to the much longer seventh saying of Amenempose. --Garrett in New American Commentary
Derived independently from trust in the Lord that leads to acts of righteousness toward the poor and needy, money is associated with self-ambition and envy, and that in turn leads to disorders such as anxiety, discontent, and all sorts of evil practices (Eccl. 5:8-12[7-11]; 1 Timothy 6:6-10; Jas 3:13-16).
Pro 23:4-5
Do not overwork to be rich;
Because of your own understanding, cease!
Will you set your eyes on that which is not?
For riches certainly make themselves wings;
They fly away like an eagle toward heaven.
rich… (Hiphil) to enrich On the one hand, riches are said to be the blessing of Yahweh to the righteous… Conversely, riches may lead to self-dependence rather than dependence upon Yahweh
Heb “from your understanding cease.” In the context this
means that the person should have enough understanding to stop wearing himself
out trying to be rich (cf. NRSV “be wise enough to desist”).
understanding…
cease... Heb “from your understanding cease.” In the
context this means that the person should have enough understanding to stop
wearing himself out trying to be rich (cf. NRSV “be wise enough to
desist”). --NET Bible Translation Notes
make themselves wings… The idea of riches flying away is not so much
a comment on investing as it is a statement of the foolishness of trusting in
something temporal instead on the faithful and immutable God. –PM
…prohibiting the quest for riches, for they are a false
security. –Waltke in NICOT
21 Do not lay up for yourselves
treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and
steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor
rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart
will be also.
APPLICATION:
1. What
reason does this wise saying give for not becoming weary in the pursuit of
riches? Are there others?
2. How does the understanding that riches are
from God and belong to God affect my attitude toward and pursuit of
riches? Ephesians 4.28
3. How do
you balance the teaching here with the many proverbs that promote diligence and
condemn sloth?
Proverbs 6.6ff Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her
ways, and be wise. Without having any chief, officer, or ruler, she prepares
her bread in summer and gathers her food in harvest.
Proverbs 13:4 The soul of the
sluggard craves and gets nothing, while the soul of the diligent is richly
supplied.
Prov. 10:4-5 A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes rich. A
child who gathers in summer is prudent, but a child who sleeps in harvest
brings shame.
Prov. 24:30-34 I passed by the
field of one who was lazy, by the vineyard of a stupid person; and see, it was
all overgrown with thorns; the ground was covered with nettles, and its stone
wall was broken down. Then I saw and considered it; I looked and received
instruction. A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to
rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want, like an armed
warrior.
Proverbs 27:23 ESV 23 Know
well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds, 24 For riches are not forever, Nor
does a crown endure to all generations.
25 When the hay is removed, and the tender grass shows
itself, And the herbs of the mountains are gathered in, 26 The lambs will provide your clothing, And the
goats the price of a field; 27
You shall have enough goats' milk for your food, For the food of your household,
And the nourishment of your maidservants.
SAYING NUMBER NINE: Misers' Meals
------------------------------------------------------------
The
word desire or lust is key in establishing the idea that the son might have
obtained an invitation the miser really would have preferred not to give. His “forcing himself” on the miser will not
end well.
Pro 23:6-8
Do not eat the bread of a miser,
Nor desire his delicacies;
For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.
“Eat and drink!” he says to you,
But his heart is not with you.
The morsel you have eaten, you will vomit up,
And waste your pleasant words.
miser... Heb “an evil eye.”
This is the opposite of the “good eye” which meant the generous man. The “evil
eye” refers to a person who is out to get everything for himself (cf. NASB,
NCV, CEV “selfish”). He is ill-mannered and inhospitable (e.g., Prov 28:22). He is up to no good – even though he may appear to be
a host. --NET Bible Translation Notes
desire… (ʾāwâ) II, desire, long, lust, covet, wait longingly,
wish, sigh, crave, want, be greedy, prefer. Occasionally the object is unspecific.
According to Num 11:4 the people “lusted a lust” or “felt a gluttonous
craving” (jps). Other examples
are Prov 21:26 and Eccl 6.2.[1]
delicacies… The primary meaning of the root
is “to try, or to evaluate, with the tongue, normally with a view to
consumption if the flavor is suitable.”
The root
is employed in three basic situations.
First, it is used for the act of
eating food, an act which also incorporates the normal process of “tasting” the
flavor (I Sam 14:24, 29, 43).
Close to
this first usage is the second—the concept of “tasting” to ascertain
flavor (II Sam 19:35 [H 36]). This sense is employed in comparison with the
function of the ear testing words (Job 12:11; 34:3),
showing
how the final meaning of this verb developed—the idea of evaluation and
decision, i.e. perception. “Discernment” is made by the wife as she experiences
the profits of her labor to be good (Prov 31:18) and by the Psalmist who
discovers God’s faithful protection to be good when he decides to take refuge
in Yahweh (Ps 34:8 [H 9]). --Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament
waste…
pleasant words… Or “your compliments” (so NASB,
NIV); cf. TEV “your flattery.” --NET Bible Translation Notes
APPLICATIONS:
- A generous heart is more important than a fat wallet when choosing friends.
- Contrast the miser with the Loving Father in Luke 15.
SAYING
NUMBER TEN: Fools - 23:9 ------------------------------------------------------------
In ten
the son had thrust himself on the miser and it was not appreciated. His this one, he gives unsolicited advice to
the fool who has not heart, aptitude, or desire for it.
Saying number nine indicates that wisdom is wasted on a
fool. The literature of Egypt has no specific parallel to this?
(cf.
Matthew 7:6)
Do not speak in the hearing of a fool,
For he will despise the wisdom of your words.
hearing... “The hearing of a fool” is literally “the ears
of a fool.”--Thomas Constable
despise… buwz (Qal)
to despise, show despite toward
The heart of such an one is covered over (Psalm 119:70),
as with grease, against all impressions of better knowledge; he has for the
knowledge which the words spoken design to impart to him, no susceptibility, no
mind, but only contempt. --The Keil
& Delitzsch Commentary on the Old Testament
Proverbs 26:4
Do not answer a fool according to his folly, Lest you
also be like him.
Proverbs 26:5
Answer a fool according to his folly, Lest he be wise in
his own eyes.
SAYING NUMBER ELEVEN: Fools - 23:10-11 -------------------------------------------
We have here the second
saying about taking advantage of the defenseless and the fifth saying about
moving boundaries combined for the closing thought of this section on wealth.
Do not remove the ancient landmark,
Nor enter the fields of the fatherless;
For their Redeemer is mighty;
He will plead their cause against you.
Redeemer... The Hebrew goël is a technical term for the
next of kin who has the duty of repurchasing a family estate which had become
alienated (Lev. xxv.25). (Elijah of Wilna). --A Cohen in Soncino
Books of the Bible
The term [redeemer] is applied to God in, e.g., Genesis 28:16; Exodus 6:6; Job
19:25; and many times in Isaiah 41-63. -- Kidner in TOTC
mighty… strong,
stout, mighty
strong; severe, sharp, hot; firm, hard
a strong one (subst)
---BlueLetterBible
plead… Is this the
same word as the 2nd saying
cause…
1. To
strive in the sense of physical combat is apparently primary.
2. verbal combat, i.e. to quarrel, to chide one
another
3. 3. By another easy transition it takes on a
legal-judicial significance and, strangely, usually with God as acting subject.
5.
Three times rîb has the connotation of “to complain” (BDB). -- Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament
Psalm 10.14, 17-18
14 But You have seen, for You observe trouble and grief,
To repay it by Your hand.
The helpless commits himself to You;
You are the helper of the fatherless.
15 Break the arm of the wicked and the evil man;
Seek out his wickedness until You find none.
16 The Lord is King forever and ever;
The nations have perished out of His land.
17 Lord, You have heard the desire of the humble;
You will prepare their heart; You will cause Your ear to
hear,
18 To do justice to the fatherless and the oppressed,
That the man of the earth may oppress no more.
Special provision was made in the
Apostolical ministration for these friendless objects of Christian help (Acts
6.1; 1 Tim. 5.3-5, 9, 10). The gospel reflects the image of Christ, when native
selfishness is thus melted away in sympathizing love. –Charles
Bridges.
APPLICATIONS:
1. What Gospel truths or principles do we see
reflected in these verses?
2. How do we teach our children compassion?
- Live a Compassionate Life: You send the most powerful messages about compassion to your children by living and expressing those messages in your own life. If you lead a compassionate life, your children will get this message frequently and consistently, and will likely internalize it in their own lives.
- Talk to your children about compassion: Explain what compassion is and why it is important to them, your family, and the world as a whole. The way to really reinforce this message is to offer your children examples of compassion. Point out ways in which your children can express compassion in your family, for example, being kind to their siblings. < https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-power-prime/201407/5-ways-instill-compassion-in-your-children >
- Compassion has three parts:
- You SEE a need with your EYES! {or HEAR a need with your EARS!}
- You FEEL BADLY {tenderheartedness: strong enough to feel the hurts and joys of others.-mvcs) for that person in your HEART!
- You use ACTION to HELP with your HANDS!
- {{He drew out an eye, a heart, & what looked a little like a hand on the board too! :)}
- Practice compassion. “Compassion cannot be learned by talking about it. Children must practice compassion in their daily lives. Difficult encounters with family members, classmates, and friends present opportunities for kids to put themselves in another’s shoes – to practice empathy. They also learn compassion when they practice giving without the need to gain anything in return, when they are with people or animals who are suffering, and when they experience the internal reward of feeling appreciated.” < http://www.rootsofaction.com/how-to-instill-compassion-in-children/ >
- Encourage your children to be on the lookout for the lonely or unpopular students in the grade to show the grace and kindness of Jesus. < http://www.whatchristianswanttoknow.com/17-ways-to-teach-children-compassion/#ixzz3otH0Pyad >
- What character traits are closely connected with compassion? Attentiveness to notice other people. Help your children develop an attitude of humble gratefulness.
- Psalm 103, story of the Good Samaritan,
3. Discuss the fear of the Lord: The awareness
that God is watching, weighing and rewarding everything that I do, say, and
think.
4. Why do you thingk these truths were repeated in this section?
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