The book of Proverbs seeks to frame our view of wisdom not as a joyless duty, instead showing wisdom as something desirable. Time and again it speaks of wisdom as a treasure: a lost treasure, or gold, or silver, or jewels. They are prizes worth seeking, worth the effort, worth the search. These things are not merely valuable but beautiful in a way that lends beauty to their whole environment.
Here are my ten favorite that portray wisdom as desirable, beautiful, and enriching in a way that matters:
- (Pro 2:4) If you seek her as silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures ...
- (Pro 3:14) For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold.
- (Pro 8:10) Receive my instruction, and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold.
- (Pro 8:19) My fruit is better than gold, even fine gold; and my revenue than choice silver.
- (Pro 10:20) The tongue of the just is as choice silver ...
- (Pro 16:16) How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to gain understanding is preferable to silver!
- (Pro 20:15) There is gold, and a multitude of rubies: but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.
- (Pro 22:1) A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favor rather than silver and gold.
- (Pro 25:11) A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.
- (Pro 25:12) As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover upon an obedient ear.
The proverbs aim both to challenge our priorities and to inspire a better quest. The book of Proverbs portrays wisdom as one of the chief treasures of life.
3 comments:
Good list!
For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold
I loved this proverb. By the way your collection is just admirable,
Hi Martin
Thank you for the encouragement!
And to the new blogger -- may God's grace be with you.
Take care & God bless
Anne / WF
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