Proverbs 8 Commentary
The personification of abstract objects isn’t a new phenomenon. It could be a clever way of writing. Chapters 5 through 7 talk about the woman who is wickedness by herself. She seduces. The saint is warned to stay away.
Chapter 8 is about another woman called wisdom. She is also on the hunt, calling people to herself. There is no seduction. It is all holiness, simple, and plain. No enticement.
Lady Wickedness is all about self-aggrandizement, gold, and silver. With lady Wisdom are riches and honor, enduring wealth and prosperity. Verse 18. Lady Wisdom’s fruit is better; better than fine gold, what lady Wisdom yields surpass silver. Clearly, the two women are different.
The world promises self-aggrandizement. Yes. It also promises gold and silver. That is also correct. These are lady Wickedness’ counterfeit products. They can only lead to pain and suffering. And the customers are putting themselves under the judgment of the Creator God.
The real product comes from lady Wisdom.
You cannot give what you don’t have. Lady Wickedness cannot give what she is not.
Part of humanity’s tragedy lies in the creation of abstract objects. We have put wisdom, intelligence, love, and things like joy on the table. Then individuals can select from these objects and keep them as pets or wear them like clothes. No. Joy or love cannot be independent of the individual.
So the personification of wisdom is just right. It makes us think of one who called himself Peace, Love, and Light. He is the firstborn of God’s creation. Jesus Christ, the wisdom of God. Jesus Christ, the very word of God. He is speaking. Seek him. Find Him.
Look out for lady Wickedness. She entices. Her words are seductive. Any system or individual, group, or ideology that makes you feel enticed must be questioned seriously. Seek something beyond the promises of self-aggrandizement, gold, and silver.
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