The purpose of Proverbs

1 These are the ◄proverbs/wise sayings► that come from Solomon, the King of Israel, who was the son of King David.

2 ◄These proverbs [PRS] can teach people/By studying these proverbs, people can learn► how to be wise

and how to obey what these proverbs teach them.

They will also help people to understand which teachings are wise.

3 These proverbs [PRS] will teach you how to discipline/control yourselves,

how to conduct your lives,

and how to do what is right and just [DOU].

4 They will show people who do not yet know much how to do things that are smart.

They will show young people how to become wise and how to make good plans/decisions.

5 Those who are wise should also pay attention to these proverbs,

in order to become more wise,

and those who understand these teachings will receive good advice/guidance.

6 Then they will be able to understand the meaning of proverbs and parables/metaphors,

these wise sayings and ◄riddles/sayings that are difficult to understand►.

7 If you want to be wise, you must begin by revering Yahweh.

Only foolish people despise wisdom and good advice/discipline.