In Proverbs
9, these same words are used to describe both the voice of wisdom and the voice
of foolishness (vs 4 and 16). Both are depicted as women crying out from the
highest places in the city, calling people to listen. Both offer an
interpretation of what it means to truly enjoy life.
What an
absolutely brilliant literary device this is, a memorable juxtaposition of two
contrasting lifestyles. The voice of wisdom invites people to come and partake
of the blessings of righteous living, while the voice of foolishness invites
people to partake of hidden pleasures. We can live for what is right or we can
live for selfish desires. We can live for God or we can live for ourselves.
Both women,
both voices, call out to “whoever is simple”. The Hebrew word implies people
who are easily led, wavering, gullible or inexperienced. It might be young
people wondering where their lives will take them, or older people standing at
a crossroads thinking “where to now?”
Both women,
both voices, call for a definite commitment. “Turn in here” means a change of
lifestyle, a commitment one way or the other. It might be possible to roam up and
down the street, hearing both voices but responding to neither. What isn’t
possible, though, is accepting both invitations. It really is one or the other.
Which voice
are you listening to?
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