Included in Hezekiah’s collection of Proverbs were writings by Agur and King Lemuel. “The proverbs of Agur, son of Jakeh, and those of King Lemuel appears to have existed independently before they became part of the biblical book. Most commentators assume they were of Arabian descent, a theory supported by a slight textual variant. Neither Agur nor Lemuel is known outside these biblical references, and their origins remain in doubt.” (Encountering the Old Testament by Arnold and Beyer)
Agur begins by confessing his lack of knowledge and elevating the Word of the Lord. “Every word of God is pure…Do not add to His words, lest He rebuke you, and you be found a liar.” Agur asks the Lord to remove lies from him and not to make him rich or poor bc he knows that these would be stumbling blocks in his life. “Lest I be full and deny you…Or lest I be poor and steal, and profane the name of my God.” Agur does not put his trust in his own knowledge or resources, which will lead to pride, but he trusts in the Lord.
Proverbs 31 (vs 1-9) is wise advice given to King Lemuel from his mom. She says don’t be a womanizer and a drunkard but do judge righteously and protect the poor and needy. Way to go mama! 🤓
The remaining verses of Proverbs 31 (10-31) describe the attributes of a noble wife. She is one who is trustworthy, kind, wise, faithful, hard working, considerate of the poor, good to spouse, respected in the home and outside of the home, resourceful, but most importantly…she fears the Lord. “Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates.” 🙌
That’s a wrap on the Book of Proverbs. 🎉Tomorrow we begin day 1 of 12 days of reading the remaining Psalms so keep reading!
(Proverbs 30:1-31:31)
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Chronological Bible in Layman's Terms 