Religious Duties of Proverbs 3:1-12Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay According to some, King Solomon was inspired by the Holy Spirit to write the poetic book of Proverbs. All of Solomon's writings have literary significance, and the third chapter of Proverbs is notable not only for its theme but also for its use of poetic devices. To understand this chapter, we must place it in its historical and social context and examine it verse by verse. Although a large number of commentators consider the book of Proverbs to be the writings of Solomon, others remain uncertain, suggesting that Hezekiah or one of Hezekiah's servants may have written the book. Lemuel is considered another possible author, since his name is mentioned in Proverbs 31. Nevertheless, Proverbs 3 is commonly attributed to Solomon, suggesting that it was written around 950 BC. The final collection of proverbs may not have occurred until perhaps 700 BC. of the Book of Proverbs is clearly written in the opening verses of the first chapter: “Know wisdom and instruction; perceive the words of understanding; receive instruction in wisdom, justice, judgment, and righteousness; giving subtlety to the simple, to the young man of knowledge and discretion. (Proverbs 3:2-4 KJV) Proverb 3 begins with the famous words: “My son.” Solomon uses these words repeatedly when opening a new chapter or theme. According to some commentators, Solomon repeats his mother's words, indicating that the proverbs he writes are actually those of his mother. There are other commentators who believe that "My son" simply expresses Solomon's loving concern for his audience. Just as a father loves his children, Solomon writes his proverbs out of love for the reader. Solomon continues the first verse of Proverbs 3 by earnestly urging the reader to remember God's law and keep His commandments. The way in which Solomon puts this message forward is remarkable. It first indicates what the reader should not do. Then, in Proverbs 3:5, Solomon begins a new thought or theme: trust in God. Solomon warns against trusting in one's own knowledge or that of other men. He guides the reader toward trusting God, giving the reasons in the following verse with the promise that God will direct the paths of those who acknowledge Him. Solomon then advises against vanity and boasting. It reveals that moving away from evil is healthy for the body, referring to the spiritual body or soul. For another rebuke of vanity, Solomon asks the reader to honor the Lord with both substance and richness. This practice began with Cain and Abel, who offered to the Lord the fruits of their labor, and is also found in the apostles' command to men to give alms to God, thus establishing the importance of paying homage to God. Solomon writes that by doing so one will prosper even more, which is a further encouragement and promise. In the final verses of this study, Solomon supports punishment. In verses eleven and twelve he speaks of comfort in affliction, declaring that the Lord chastens out of love. He uses the comparison of a father's love toward his children to help the reader understand the need for correction. Throughout the opening verses of Proverbs 3, Solomon uses many poetic devices to support his arguments. Solomon begins Proverbs 3:1 with a warning: “Do not forget my law.” He does not say, “Remember my..