The Church Fathers on this verse

Proverbs 1:21Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

At the head of multitudes she crieth out, in the entrance of the gates of the city she uttereth her words, saying:

Douay-Rheims

בְּרֹ֥אשׁ הֹמִיּ֗וֹת תִּ֫קְרָ֥א בְּפִתְחֵ֖י שְׁעָרִ֥ים בָּעִ֗יר אֲמָרֶ֥יהָ תֹאמֵֽר׃

Hebrew (Masoretic text)

The Church Fathers on this verse

One Church Father comments on this verse

Vissarion (Nechaev)

19th centuryCommentator

The ungodly and unrighteous individuals referenced in the earlier parimia utilize various tactics of allure to draw those who are unaware and spiritually immature away from the path of truth. Yet Divine Wisdom does not abandon them amidst the treacherous schemes aimed at them. Her voice, filled with warning, rebuke, and admonition, resounds everywhere. She proclaims in the streets alongside her messengers and lifts her voice with confidence in the hills (Proverbs 1:20). The servants of Divine Wisdom declare her teachings—the teachings of truth and righteousness—from elevated positions, proclaiming as openly and publicly as if they were shouting from high walls or towers.

Read more (178 words)

This was the essence of the ministry of the prophets and later the Apostles, whom Christ instructed to declare boldly from the rooftops what had been revealed to them (Luke 16:27). The messengers of Divine Wisdom, bearers of her salvific message, are not exclusively those appointed to teach—such as youth leaders, priests, and prophets. She also engages at the gates of authority, proclaiming judgment and truth through them, as they render decisions from their judicial seats to those awaiting the outcome of their fates. She speaks with courage at the city gates, boldly reflecting the conviction found in truth, and through her she raises her voice among the gatherings of the people, where the city gates served as a prominent location for such discourse. How much more advantageous it is to know the truth and to protect oneself against falsehood and deception, especially for those susceptible to being misled by the wicked! How indefensible are those who fail to take advantage of these widely available opportunities! Wisdom calls out boldly to all; what is it that she proclaims?

Cross references

Passages read together with this verse.