Proverbs 30:1  “The words of Agur the son of Jakeh…to Ithiel and Ucal”
Question as to who these men are.  Some think Agur is another reference to Solomon, others come up with someone else.  The last two names are probably sons or disciples of Agur.  I see nothing in the text to give us a definitive clue.  Just trust that this chapter and the last are included because God wanted them.  I’ve always wondered if Agur could have been an unmentioned son of Solomon.  With as many wives as he had, he’s bound to have had many children that aren’t mentioned in scripture.  Not sure if Jakeh is male or female.  Could be a reference to Agur’s mother if his father was known.  Speculation on my part.

2-3  Humble assessment of his own knowledge.  Doesn’t claim to have any special revelation about God.

4  Commentaries view these as someone asking the questions.  Who can know these things.  I see them as describing God Himself by asking the questions.  I agree with the commentaries that there is the sense of not knowing, that he is saying God is truly unknowable in a complete sense.  We have what is revealed of Him, but no one knows everything about Him.

6  “Do not add to His words, Lest He rebuke you, and you be found a liar.”
Responsibility and burden of those called to speak.  Making sure we speak only what He wants, not our own ideas.  Why it is so important to stay in scripture.

8  “…Give me neither poverty nor riches…”
What I am supposed to have, neither extreme.  He sees the problems with both ends.  Seeks contentment.

10  “Do not malign a servant to his master…”
Mind your own business.  Better yet, keep your nose out of things you know nothing about.

11-14  “There is a generation that curses its father, And does not bless its mother.”
Description of those who violate the fifth commandment.  Actions go beyond disrespect of parents.

20  “This is the way of an adulterous woman:  She eats and wipes her mouth, And says, “I have done no wickedness.””
Out of sight, out of mind.  Many use this method of hiding their sin, even from themselves.

21  “For three things…Yes, for four…”
Literary device used several times here.  Stating a number then increasing it to show importance.  Seem to recall some of the prophets using it, but don’t remember specifics.

32  “If you have been foolish in exalting yourself, Or if you have devised evil, put your hand on your mouth.”
Just shut up.  Extra words don’t help.  Half of my troubles could be prevented if I don’t speak at all.  The other half could be resolved if I shut up after making the mistake of speaking in the first place.

I hope you enjoy reading and studying His word.  May it accomplish what He desires.  Please feel free to comment or post questions.  Thanks for reading!

Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.