Pr 9:1-18. The commendation of wisdom is continued, under the figure of a liberal host, and its provisions under that of a feast (compare Lu 14:16-24). The character of those who are invited is followed by a contrasted description of the rejectors of good counsel; and with the invitations of wisdom are contrasted the allurement of the wicked woman.

1. house—(compare Pr 8:34).

her—or, "its" (the house).

seven pillars—the number seven for many, or a sufficiency (Pr 6:31).

2. mingled—to enhance the flavor (Pr 23:30; Isa 5:22).

furnished—literally, "set out," "arranged."

3. maidens—servants to invite (compare Ps 68:11; Isa 40:9).

highest places—ridges of heights, conspicuous places.

4-6. (Compare Pr 1:4; 6:32). Wisdom not only supplies right but forbids wrong principles.

7, 8. shame—(Compare Pr 3:35).

a blot—or, "stain on character." Both terms denote the evil done by others to one whose faithfulness secures a wise man's love.

9. The more a wise man learns, the more he loves wisdom.

10. (Compare Pr 1:7).

of the holy—literally, "holies," persons or things, or both. This knowledge gives right perception.

11. (Compare Pr 3:16-18; 4:10).

12. You are mainly concerned in your own conduct.

13. foolish woman—or literally, "woman of folly," specially manifested by such as are described.

clamorous—or, "noisy" (Pr 7:11).

knoweth nothing—literally, "knoweth not what," that is, is right and proper.

14. on a seat—literally, "throne," takes a prominent place, impudently and haughtily.

15, 16. to allure those who are right-minded, and who are addressed as in Pr 9:4, as

simple—that is, easily led (Pr 1:4) and unsettled, though willing to do right.

17. The language of a proverb, meaning that forbidden delights are sweet and pleasant, as fruits of risk and danger.

18. (Compare Pr 2:18, 19; 7:27).