Proverbs 9 · Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
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.