Commonplace –
“My son, attend unto my wisdom, and bow thine ear to my understanding:
That thou mayest regard discretion, and that thy lips may keep knowledge” (Proverbs 5:1-2).
As Matthew Henry notes,
“The scope of this chapter is much the same with that of chapter 2. To write the same things, in other words, ought not to be grievous, for it is safe, Phil. 3:1” (668).
For reference, the full quote from Philippians 3:1 is:
“Further, my brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord! It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you (Phil 3:1)”.
This is a splendid reference Henry has provided and spot on in regards to Proverbs 5. It is often said that people need to be reminded more than instructed, which is exactly what Solomon has been doing in these past few chapters, reminding his son over and over why seeking wisdom and choosing good is the best path. In Proverbs 5, Solomon adds to his previous arguments for the path of righteousness and ponders the outcome of a wicked life. He also spends time (v.18-20) encouraging his son to remain faithful to his wife and refrain from seeking the embrace of “a strange woman” (v.20).
Works Cited
Henry, Matthew. “Proverbs 5.” Matthew Henry’s Commentary On the Whole Bible: New Modern Edition. Volume 3 and Volume 6, Hendrickson Publishers, Inc., March 1996.
Holy Bible: Giant Print with Study Aids. Dugan Publishers, Inc., 1984.
© 2025 Angela Hormberg
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