9:1ff Wisdom and foolishness are portrayed in this chapter as rival young women, each preparing a feast and inviting people to it. But wisdom is a responsible woman of character, while foolishness is a prostitute serving stolen food. Wisdom appeals first to the mind; foolishness to the senses. It is easier to excite the senses, but the pleasures of foolishness are temporary. By contrast, the satisfaction that wisdom brings lasts forever.
9:1 The seven pillars are figurative; they do not represent seven principles of wisdom. In the Bible, the number seven represents completeness and perfection. This verse poetically states that wisdom lacks nothing—it is complete and perfect.
9:1-5 The banquet described in this chapter has some interesting parallels to the banquet Jesus described in one of his parables (Luke 14:15-24). Many may intend to go, but they never make it because they get sidetracked by other activities that seem more important at the time. Don’t let anything become more important than your search for God’s wisdom.
9:7-10 Are you a scorner or a wise person? You can tell by the way you respond to criticism. Instead of tossing back a quick put-down or clever retort when rebuked, listen to what is being said. Learn from your critics; this is the path to wisdom. Wisdom begins with knowing God. He gives insight into living because he created life. To know God is not just to know the facts about him, but to stand in awe of him and have a relationship with him. Do you really want to be wise? Get to know God better and better. (See James 1:5; 2 Peter 1:2-4 for more on how to become wise.)
9:14-17 Something is hypnotic and intoxicating about wickedness. One sin leads us to want more; sinful behavior seems more exciting than the “boring” Christian life. That is why many people put aside all thought of wisdom’s sumptuous banquet (9:1-5) in order to eat the stolen food of foolishness. Don’t be deceived—sin is dangerous. Before reaching for forbidden fruit, take a long look at what happens to those who eat it. (See the chart in chapter 21, p. 946.)