Chapter 2 in the Book of Proverbs

Proverbs 2:1-22

The Protasis (=condition) (1-4)

1-2 Listen attentively to the teacher (accept as valid, memorize, focus all attention)

3-4 Seek

3: call out for insight, cry aloud for understanding (as for asking God or a king for deliverance from trouble)

4: as one seeks lost money or hidden treasure

The Apodosis (=result) (5-11)

Greater insight that comes from Wisdom

5-8 begins with ‘then’. This part emphasizes understanding of God and His ways.

9-11 begins with ‘then’. This part focuses on proper and carful behaviour in life.

The Two Tempters (12-19)

12-15: wicked men with perverse words

16-19: the adulterous woman with her seductive words

Concluding Summation (20-22)

This part begins with ‘thus’. You will be in the ways of the good and the paths of the righteous (20).

21 vs 22 contrasts the two consequences of the upright/blameless and the wicked/unfaithful: life and death.

References

[1] Garrett, D. A. (1993). Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of songs (Vol. 14, pp. 75–77). Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers.