beat #33 - jasmine [proverbs, day 6] (Thursday, May 9, 2013 / 10:40 PM)
Proverbs 6
In Sunday School we looked at Proverbs 6 in isolation, and discussed what it meant.
We talked about being active, about perspective and many other traits that are highlighted in the chapter.
But as we continued to discuss it, we realized that it was framed by Proverbs 5 and 7, which are about adultery. (And so is the second half of Proverbs 6)
To re-look at the first part of Proverbs 6 in the light of this thematic continuity gave new insight into our discussion on timing, and the challenge to run the hell away from temptation if it came near.
Re-reading Proverbs 6 now on the heels of Proverbs 5 casts everything in greater clarity, the speaker's warning comes in a series of images of urgency, of situations considered unprofitable or potentially damaging to the subject in question and an emphasis on acting quickly and decisively.
By drawing a parallel between these presented scenarios and adultery, the speaker is crafting a very specific perspective on adultery, taking away its allure and charm while presenting it in as negative a light as possible.
I guess the beauty of wisdom literature sometimes lies also in the way it presents its lesson.
There is not one way to teach a lesson, or to present an argument.
Often, by painting classic lessons in fresh words and images, there is a change in the receiving dynamic, which triggers different thoughts and reactions.
As a reader going through Proverbs again, I am struck by the newfound urgency I hear in the voice of the speaker, and speaks to me in a time where I thought it would be irrelevant.
Mental note: Wisdom literature is wise in its delivery too. It is as much about the how as the what and the why.
"For these commands are a lamp, this teaching is a light, and the corrections of discipline are the way to life,"
Proverbs 6:23
