Proverbs: An Introduction

The Hebrew title of this book is mishley shelomoh, translated “The Proverbs of Solomon.”  The term “proverb” (mashal, Heb.) is derived from a root meaning primarily “to be like” and is used as comparisons, rules of living, parables, sayings, or discourses on wisdom.  Oftentimes the proverbs in this book will use contrasts between opposites such as the wise and the foolish, the good and the wicked.
The authorship of the writings is King Solomon and some others.  However, the book did not achieve its final form before the time of Hezekiah (25:1), and there were others who contributed to it.  The primary author was King Solomon.

The writings were edited 729-686 B.C.  Since Solomon is given the most significant role in the book, most of the proverbs would have been collected during the tenth century B.C.  Hezekiah’s men compiled and edited it from 729-686 B.C.

Patrick McGuire