Kings & Prophets 09 Provers, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs

Many people attribute Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, and most of Proverbs to King Solomon. Possibly this stems from 1 Kings 4:32, which says about King Solomon, “He spoke three thousand parables and his songs numbered a thousand and five.” He was known world-wide for his far-reaching knowledge and wisdom.

Proverbs 1 and 10 begin by specifying they are the proverbs of Solomon. Proverbs 22:17 says they are thirty sayings of the wise, and then other attributions begin being given, including to Solomon.

There are many themes that run through Proverbs, including: the importance of wisdom, the folly of adultery and prostitution, and the value of family relationships. Since Solomon likely violated many of his proverbs in his later life, it would be incredibly interesting to know at which point in his life each proverb was written. As Solomon points out, following the proverbs is the wise thing to do. They are not commandments from God, but rather are wise pieces of guidance from a multitude of wise people.