{
  "schema_version": "simple_bible_commentary_page_v1",
  "generated_at": "2026-05-22T01:36:44.281544+00:00",
  "custom_id": "PRO_006",
  "testament": "OT",
  "book": "Proverbs",
  "passage_ref": "Proverbs 3:13-35",
  "title": "The value and way of wisdom",
  "canonical_url": "/commentary/old-testament-simple/proverbs/pro_006/",
  "json_path": "/data/commentary/old-testament-simple/proverbs/PRO_006.json",
  "simple_summary": "Wisdom is far better than silver, gold, or anything else we desire. The Lord made the world by wisdom, and he calls his people to keep wisdom close. Those who walk in wisdom are given a safer path, less fear, and a more peaceful life. Wisdom also shapes how we treat others: we should give help when we can, speak honestly, avoid harm, and not envy violent people. The Lord blesses the righteous, opposes the proud, and brings shame on fools.",
  "simple_explanation": "This passage teaches that wisdom is the greatest good because it comes from the Lord and fits the way he made the world. It is more valuable than wealth, honor, or long life by themselves. Wisdom brings peace, security, and life. The Lord used wisdom in creating the heavens and the earth, so human wisdom is not random. It is meant to match God’s order.\n\nThe passage also says wisdom must be kept and guarded. It should guide daily life. The wise person is called to do good, help neighbors, avoid delay when help is needed, and refuse false accusations or secret harm. Wisdom is not only inward thought. It shows itself in action, speech, and fairness.\n\nThe end of the passage draws a sharp contrast. The violent, wicked, proud, and foolish person is under the Lord’s judgment. The upright, humble, and righteous person receives favor and honor. These are proverb-like truths that describe the normal pattern of life under God, not a promise that life will always be easy without trouble.",
  "important_truths": [
    "Wisdom is more valuable than silver, gold, rubies, or anything else we desire.",
    "The Lord made the world by wisdom, understanding, and knowledge.",
    "Wisdom is life-giving and leads to peace, security, and rest.",
    "Wisdom must be guarded and kept close.",
    "True wisdom shows itself in generosity, honesty, and neighbor-love.",
    "Do not withhold good when you can help.",
    "Do not plan harm, bring false charges, or envy violent people.",
    "The Lord blesses the righteous, gives favor to the humble, and opposes the proud and wicked."
  ],
  "warnings_promises_commands": [
    "Blessed is the one who finds wisdom and understanding.",
    "Do not let wisdom and discretion escape from your sight.",
    "Safeguard sound wisdom and discretion.",
    "Do not withhold good from those who need it when you have the ability to help.",
    "Do not delay helping your neighbor when you can help now.",
    "Do not plot evil against your neighbor.",
    "Do not accuse anyone without a valid reason.",
    "Do not envy a violent man or imitate his ways.",
    "The Lord’s curse is on the house of the wicked.",
    "He shows favor to the humble.",
    "The wise inherit honor."
  ],
  "gods_plan_connection": "This wisdom teaching belongs to Israel’s covenant life and the order God built into creation. The tree of life image recalls Eden, and the blessing and curse language fits the covenant pattern found throughout Scripture. In the larger Bible story, this kind of wisdom points ahead to the need for a perfectly wise and righteous king, and it fits the later revelation that true wisdom is finally seen in Christ.",
  "simple_application": "We should value wisdom above money, success, and quick comfort. We should trust that God’s way is good even when shortcuts look easier. Wisdom should shape how we speak, give, work, and treat neighbors. We should help when we are able, tell the truth, avoid envy, and stay humble before the Lord. This passage also warns us not to chase violence, pride, or selfish gain, because those ways end in shame.",
  "net_bible_attribution": "Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NET) are from the NET Bible®, copyright ©1996, 2019 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved.",
  "source_status": {
    "stage3_status": "",
    "normalized_final_release_status": "",
    "final_release_status": "",
    "stage3_final_release_status": "",
    "operator_review_status": ""
  }
}