How to Read Proverbs

Proverbs are memorable capsules of wisdom, provided by God's wisdom guiding those who have traveled that path ahead of us. But the proverbs of the Bible make a greater claim than "a penny saved is a penny earned." They are woven into the web of divine revelation, rooted in the "fear of the Lord" that is the beginning of wisdom.

How to Read Proverbs offers:


• An introduction to the book of Proverbs

• Concrete guidance for interpreting and applying Proverbs

• Information on the genre of Proverbs and its ancient Near Eastern setting

• Relational cross-references to Job and Ecclesiastes

• A case for Christ being the climax and embodiment of wisdom

• Expert authorship in Old Testament wisdom literature

How to Read Proverbs treats the book of Proverbs as a whole, understanding its relationship to ancient non-Israelite wisdom and listening to its conversation with the other great voices of wisdom in Scripture--Job and Ecclesiastes.

Tremper Longman III provides a welcome guide to reading and studying, understanding and savoring the Proverbs for all their wisdom. Most important for Christian readers, the author provides insight into how Christ is the climax and embodiment of wisdom.