What does Proverbs 3:18 mean?
Wisdom has been poetically imagined as a woman several times in Proverbs (Proverbs 1:20; 3:14). Here, Solomon brings in another analogy: a tree of life. We read of "the" tree of life in Genesis 2:9, and the Bible's last mention of a tree of life happens in Revelation 22. In Revelation 22:14 the tree of life is available to those who are cleansed and are therefore believers. They are also called "blessed" in verse 14, and they are qualified to enter the New Jerusalem.Here, those who find wisdom are also called "blessed." The tree of life speaks of longevity and fruitfulness, and certainly those who follow godly wisdom are blessed with a long life—eternal life—and a spiritually fruitful life. Jesus said, "Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you…Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit" (John 15:3, 5). Wisdom leads to faith in Jesus, cleansing from sin, and a productive spiritual life.
Proverbs 3:13–26 extols the virtue of wisdom. Solomon began this discussion in chapter 1, and explained in chapter 2 that the Lord gives wisdom to the upright. Now he describes as blessed the person who finds wisdom, and explains its benefits and applications. Wisdom, as used in this book, refers to the ability to apply godly knowledge. While not a guarantee someone will act accordingly, having a grasp of God's intent for our lives is immensely valuable.
This chapter of Proverbs is addressed to Solomon's son. The term, ''my son'' occurs 15 times in chapters 1—7. The words may apply to one of Solomon's students in his court or to one of his biological sons. The application of wisdom in Proverbs 3 shows the benefits of trusting in the Lord with one's whole heart. Solomon credits obedience to and trust in God for longevity, success, guidance, health, reward that exceeds monetary wealth, enjoyment, peace, security, confidence, excellent human relationships, the Lord's blessing and favor, and honor. As with all ''proverbs,'' biblical or otherwise, their purpose is to impart general wisdom, not absolute prophecy. Like the original audience, modern readers are not expected to see these guidelines as absolute guarantees for any one person.
