ESV Reformation Study Bible – Pr 1:6
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Pr 1:6

1:6 These different words may be used synonymously, as in Hab. 2:6, but probably here they are distinct forms of wisdom sayings, having as a common characteristic an enigma that challenges the intellect (1:1 note).

saying. Sometimes rendered “parable.” Actually the parables of Jesus are somewhat different from what is found in Proverbs, although they show the influence of wisdom literature.

riddles. These are probably a broad but identifiable type of wisdom literature. The word is used of Samson’s riddle (Judg. 14:12–19), of an allegory (Ezek. 17:2), and of the sayings used to test Solomon (1 Kin. 10:1).