Have you ever heard the sayings, “The early bird gets the worm” or “Don’t judge a book by its cover”? Proverbs are short, pithy sayings that contain a larger truth. The same is true for biblical proverbs, but their purpose goes a bit deeper. In Scripture, proverbs invite readers to become wise by reflecting on their words.

Solomon, who many say is the author of Ecclesiastes, was also the author of the Book of Proverbs. Solomon had asked God for wisdom (1 Kings 3:1; 4:29), and he shares his wisdom in the form of proverbs. As we read each short saying, we can ask: What does this illustration mean in the literal sense? What point about life and wisdom might the Teacher be making? Where else in the Bible do I find this same teaching?

For example, in chapter 10, verse one, the Teacher says, “As dead flies give perfume a bad smell, so a little folly outweighs wisdom and honor.” Here he is conveying that even one small misstep can have a dramatic effect. Consider how one bad action, once discovered, can be enough to tarnish someone’s reputation. The proverb is reminding us that “folly” or “sin” should not be tolerated.

He extols the virtue of a calm reaction to accusations: “If a ruler’s anger rises against you, do not leave your post; calmness can lay great offenses to rest” (v. 4). Similar advice is found in the book of Proverbs: “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” (15:1). While these proverbs may at first glance seem unrelated, they are building a picture of what it means to be wise. How would it look if we followed this advice in the ordinary situations of life?