Proverbs 30 - Introduction - Joseph Benson’s Commentary on the Old and New Testaments

Bible Comments

A.M. 3304. B.C. 700.

Here begins what has been termed, The fourth part of the book of Proverbs, consisting of only two Chapter s; added to the preceding parts by way of a second appendix, but by whom we are not informed, most probably, however, by the men of Hezekiah, who added the former appendix. This chapter contains a new collection of important sayings, which some suppose to be Solomon's; and, therefore, translate דברי אגור , the words of the collector, instead of the words of Agur. But why Solomon should call himself by this name, and also, instead of the son of David, should style himself the son of Jakeh, seems perfectly unaccountable. It is, therefore, most reasonable to follow our translation, and to look upon this chapter as a fragment of some wise sentences, delivered by one whose name was Agur, and his father's name Jakeh. We have here Agur's confession of faith, &c., Proverbs 30:1-6. His prayer, Proverbs 30:7-9. A caution against wronging servants, Proverbs 30:10. Four wicked generations, Proverbs 30:11-14. Four things insatiable, Proverbs 30:15; Proverbs 30:16. A warning to undutiful children, Proverbs 30:17. Four things unsearchable, Proverbs 30:18-20. Four things intolerable, Proverbs 30:21-23. Four things little and wise, Proverbs 30:24-28. Four things stately, Proverbs 30:29-31.