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What the Bible Says About Proverbs

Overview

The Bible addresses proverbs across 27 verses, drawn from both the Old and New Testaments. These passages cluster most in Proverbs, Ezekiel and 1 Samuel. Closely related themes include Young Men, Instruction, Children and Responsibility. Figures whose stories touch this theme include Saul, David, Solomon and Abner.

Key Bible verses about proverbs

Old Testament

Ezekiel

Ezekiel 12:22

Son of man, what is that proverb that ye have in the land of Israel, saying, The days are prolonged, and every vision faileth?

Ezekiel 12:23

Tell them therefore, Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will make this proverb to cease, and they shall no more use it as a proverb in Israel; but say unto them, The days are at hand, and the effect of every vision.

Ezekiel 16:44

Behold, every one that useth proverbs shall use this proverb against thee, saying, As is the mother, so is her daughter.

Ezekiel 18:2

What mean ye, that ye use this proverb concerning the land of Israel, saying, The fathers have eaten sour grapes, and the children's teeth are set on edge?

Ezekiel 18:3

As I live, saith the Lord GOD, ye shall not have occasion any more to use this proverb in Israel.

Ezekiel 18:4

Behold, all souls are mine; as the soul of the father, so also the soul of the son is mine: the soul that sinneth, it shall die.

New Testament

People in the Bible and proverbs

Biblical figures whose stories intersect with this theme.

In the Bible dictionary

Studying proverbs for yourself

  • Begin with 1 Samuel 10:12, then read the passages below in canonical order.
  • Compare how Proverbs, Ezekiel and 1 Samuel each treat the theme.
  • Consider the lives of Saul, David and Solomon and how their stories intersect with it.
  • Widen the study to related themes: Young Men, Instruction, Children and Responsibility.

Frequently asked questions

What does the Bible say about proverbs?

The Bible addresses proverbs across 27 verses, drawn from both the Old and New Testaments. These passages cluster most in Proverbs, Ezekiel and 1 Samuel. Closely related themes include Young Men, Instruction, Children and Responsibility. Figures whose stories touch this theme include Saul, David, Solomon and Abner.

How many Bible verses are about proverbs?

The Bible references proverbs in 27 verses (King James Version).

Where does the Bible first mention proverbs?

In canonical order, the first of these passages is 1 Samuel 10:12: “And one of the same place answered and said, But who is their father? Therefore it became a proverb, Is Saul also among the prophets? of: Heb. from thence”

Which people in the Bible are associated with proverbs?

Saul, David, Solomon, Abner and Ishbosheth.

Preach & teach

Outline a sermon or build a study series on proverbs.

Preach a series on Proverbs