Walking in the Ancient Israelite Society: The Literary Structure of Proverbs 19:15-29 and 22:1-16

Abstract

Proverbs (especially chapters 10-29) has been criticized for its lack of systematic structure and for its lack of teachings on God’s deeds. Therefore, it is often ignored by Christians and even by Jews. This paper attempts to examine the structure and overall messages of Proverbs 19:15-29 and 22:1-16 by drawing up an imaginative layout through “associative thinking”. It also attempts to show the unique redaction of this Jewish classic, which reflects the social reality observed and guides the young readers of ancient Israel, who lived in an unjust society, to act according to YHWH’s values in order to receive his blessings and avoid disasters.