Proverbs 3 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

Benefits of wisdom

• Humbly trust Yahweh (3:1–12)
• The value of wisdom (3:13–20)
• Do not act wickedly (3:21–35)

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

My Son

Occasionally, Solomon addresses a series of proverbs to “my son” or “sons.” While some of these proverbs are about common temptations of young men, the proverbs in this chapter apply more generally to people and their relationships with others.

Translation Issues in This Chapter

Personification

In 3:15–18, wisdom is referred to as if it were a woman. In languages where it makes sense for a woman figure to represent an abstract concept like wisdom, the translator can translate the personification directly. However, if direct translation does not work in your language, consider translating these personifications as similes instead. In that case, wisdom would be presented as being like a wise woman. (See: figs-personification)