CHAPTER 9

. The commendation of wisdom is continued, under the figure of a liberal host, and its provisions under that of a feast (compare Luke 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 ).
her—or, "its" (the house).
seven pillars—the number seven for many, or a sufficiency ().

2. mingled—to enhance the flavor (Proverbs 23:30; Isaiah 5:22).
furnished—literally, "set out," "arranged."

3. maidens—servants to invite (compare Psalms 68:11; Isaiah 40:9).
highest places—ridges of heights, conspicuous places.

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

7, 8. shame—(Compare ).
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 ).
of the holy—literally, "holies," persons or things, or both. This knowledge gives right perception.

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" (Proverbs 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 , as
simple—that is, easily led (Proverbs 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.