This section of wisdom literature is widely attributed to the royal court of King Solomon, dating back to the 10th century b.c. The text represents a portion of the "Thirty Sayings of the Wise," a collection that shares stylistic similarities with ancient Egyptian instruction but remains distinct in its theological foundation. It serves as a manual for navigating complex social hierarchies, offering counsel that moves from the dining tables of rulers to the internal discipline of the heart. The setting is one of mentorship, likely a father instructing a son or a master teacher guiding a pupil, aimed at cultivating a character that can withstand the allure of power, wealth, and temporary pleasures.

Character of God: The Lord is revealed here as the ultimate Defender of the vulnerable and the supreme owner of justice. While human society may overlook the rights of the orphan or the marginalized, the text identifies the Lord as their Redeemer who personally takes up their legal cause. This portrays a God who is not passive regarding property and legacy but is actively involved in maintaining the ancient boundaries that protect the livelihood of the weak. He is shown to be a God who values the heart above outward appearance, desiring truth in the innermost parts and acting as the true Father who demands righteousness not for the sake of rules, but for the preservation of the soul.

Real-World Implication: Navigating the world of influence requires discerning eyes, as the hospitality of the powerful often comes with hidden costs. The text warns that sitting at a lavish table is not merely a dining experience but a test of character, where self-restraint is more valuable than the delicacies offered. There is a stark reminder of the volatility of financial success, described as wealth sprouting wings and flying toward the heavens like an eagle, suggesting that security built solely on accumulation is an illusion. The passage also addresses the corrosive nature of envy, advising against looking longingly at those who seem to prosper without ethics, for their future is cut short while the hope of the integrity-filled life endures.

Practical Application: Wisdom requires a deliberate choice to prioritize truth over convenience, treating instruction and understanding as assets that must be acquired and never sold. This involves a deep respect for the generation that came before, urging listeners to value the counsel of aging parents whose joy is inextricably linked to the wise choices of their children. The text advises strict control over personal appetites, particularly regarding food and alcohol, noting that a lack of discipline in these areas leads to drowsiness and poverty. Parents are encouraged to view discipline not as a harsh imposition but as a necessary intervention to save a child from a destructive path. Ultimately, the guide for daily living is to direct the heart toward the Lord and keep one's eyes fixed on upright ways.