8. Proverbs Series // Structure, Vocabulary, Wordplay & Design of Proverbs
Channel: GNPI Uganda
Date: 2020-06-23

Almost every person I know describes the book of Proverbs as a long list of one verse proverbs that are all mixed up and without an apparent theme. Many Christians attempting to read through the Bible in a year get to Proverbs and end up reading a chapter in a single sitting – about 10 minutes or less. This allows very little time for reflection, gains little understanding beyond the primary principle, if that. The average reader fails to stop and savor each proverb like a bite of tasty food for a hungry man. Think how he would appreciate the warmth of the food, the taste that first impresses the tongue and then changes as it is chewed slowly. The joy of swallowing and eventually satisfying the hunger pains. Think of the contentedness of completing a sumptuous meal.
No proverb should be read quickly and then passed over. Each proverb should be enjoyed as a tasty, satisfying wisdom banquet in and of itself. Time should be taken to examine its structure, topic, sentence development, word play, and layers of meaning. I believe much thought was given to the development of each short statement. The impact and lasting impression of the proverb’s lesson depends upon the witty positioning and selection of its words. Patiently studying, reflecting, and savouring each proverb is the only way a student of wisdom will be able to internalize multiple level wisdom hidden within.