Jamieson–Fausset–Brown CommentaryProverbs 9

CHAPTER 9

Pr 9:1-18. The commendation of wisdom is continued, under the figure of a liberal host, and its provisions under that of a feast (compare Lu 14:16-24). The character of those who are invited is followed by a contrasted description of the rejectors of good counsel; and with the invitations of wisdom are contrasted the allurement of the wicked woman.

1. house--(compare Pr 8:34). her--or, "its" (the house). seven pillars--the number seven for many, or a sufficiency (Pr 6:31).

2. mingled--to enhance the flavor (Pr 23:30; Is 5:22). furnished--literally, "set out," "arranged."

3. maidens--servants to invite (compare Psa 68:11; Is 40:9). highest places--ridges of heights, conspicuous places.

4-6. (Compare Pr 1:4; 6:32). Wisdom not only supplies right but forbids wrong principles.

7-8. shame--(Compare Pr 3:35). a blot--or, "stain on character." Both terms denote the evil done by others to one whose faithfulness secures a wise man's love.

9. The more a wise man learns, the more he loves wisdom.

10. (Compare Pr 1:7). of the holy--literally, "holies," persons or things, or both. This knowledge gives right perception.

11. (Compare Pr 3:16-18; 4:10).

12. You are mainly concerned in your own conduct.

13. foolish woman--or literally, "woman of folly," specially manifested by such as are described. clamorous--or, "noisy" (Pr 7:11). knoweth nothing--literally, "knoweth not what," that is, is right and proper.

14. on a seat--literally, "throne," takes a prominent place, impudently and haughtily.

15-16. to allure those who are right-minded, and who are addressed as in Pr 9:4, as simple--that is, easily led (Pr 1:4) and unsettled, though willing to do right.

17. The language of a proverb, meaning that forbidden delights are sweet and pleasant, as fruits of risk and danger.

18. (Compare Pr 2:18, 19; 7:27).