Proverbs (Interpretation, a Bible Commentary for Teaching and Preaching)

the long version

"The biblical book of Proverbs is an example of wisdom literature that was common in the ancient Near East. The non-biblical writings of the sages used literary forms and dealt with themes that appear also in Proverbs: themes such as the meaning of creation, the value of hard work, and the importance of moral integrity. Proverbs is a collection of sayings, poems, and guiding principles that exhorts its readers to seek the higher ideals - knowledge, discipline, piety, and order - and offers guidance on how to live in harmony with God, others, and oneself." "Perdue's commentary divides Proverbs into eight separate collections, and clarifies the major historical, social, literary, theological, and ethical elements in this thorough interpretation."--BOOK JACKET.