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The Book of Proverbs fits within the genre of wisdom literature, as it is unconcerned with Israelite practices such as Temple worship or sacrifice. One in particular, has become a focal point of the Torah service - etz hayim hi lamahazikim ba v’tomkheha m’ushar or “It is a tree of life to those who grasp her, and whoever holds on to her is happy.” (Proverbs 3:18) Much of the book may be unfamiliar to many however, it does include a few notable passages. King Solomon was known for his wisdom, and so Proverbs might have seemed like a natural fit. For example, the Book of Psalms is associated with King David, who was known to be a poet and musician. The attribution more likely stems from the tradition of tying a book to a biblical figure known for a certain quality. Also, while much of the material may have been produced prior to the Jewish exile from Israel, some modern scholars set the book’s true completion in the post-exile period, long after King Solomon’s actual reign. For one, several other authors are credited throughout the book, such as the officials of King Hezekiah, Agur son of Yakeh and King Lemuel. In spite of this attribution, it is unlikely that Solomon, in fact, authored much of Proverbs. The full Hebrew title is Mishlei Shlomo, or The Proverbs of Solomon, a reference to King Solomon, who, according to Jewish tradition, is the author of Mishlei.

The Book of Proverbs is the second book in the Ketuvim (or Writings), the third section of the Tanakh (Hebrew Bible). My Jewish Learning is a not-for-profit and relies on your help Donate