Translations
Original
Notes
These verses create a break between the invitations of Wisdom and Folly. The purpose might be to warn the simple (Proverbs 9:4) that inviting mockers and the wicked is often pointless. These people have already chosen their path and respond to Wisdom's advice with violence. In contrast, the wise appreciate and benefit from corrective advice.
The first part of Proverbs reaches a peak when the son meets two women. Both invite the young man, and the reader, into a close relationship. The young man and the reader must choose between:
The woman named Wisdom, who represents God's true wisdom (Proverbs 8:1–9:6)
The woman named Folly (9:13–18), who represents worldly wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:18–2:16)
Both women's houses are on "the heights of the city" (Proverbs 9:3, 14), which suggests ancient temples. The choice is between the true God and false gods.
Parallels
Glossary
Topics
Fool: General Scriptures Concerning Haters Loving Difficult People Reproof: General Scriptures Concerning Reproof: Saints should Love Those Who Give Reproof: They Who Give, are Hated by Scorners Scorning and Mocking: Those Who are Addicted to Hate Those Who Reprove