When a reality contradicts how it is articulated, this results in a 'twisting'—better described as a distortion of the truth. Those who appear transformed, but are inwardly unchanged, utilize 'twists of words,' misleading their associates much like hares and foxes mislead dogs, presenting one facade while concealing another. The antithesis of authentic leadership consists in such 'twists of words.' Individuals who reject the simplicity inherent in spiritual teachings, while relying on complex logic that generates contradictions, often undermine the steadfastness of truth through seemingly plausible yet false ideas.
Thus, the individual safeguarded by parables will be able to ‘accept these twists of words.’ While one may face intricate matters where both arguments seem equally balanced, making it challenging to discern which is more credible, a mind cultivated in parables won’t succumb to disarray, even amidst arguments that deliver equivalent impacts. Parables also allow us to ‘grasp the essence of truth.’ Since 'truth' embodies the capacity to reward correspondingly, reaching this understanding may be elusive; some lack reasoning and fail to discern how to reward justly, while others, driven by human passions, breach equity, as the impoverished are neglected and the powerful are not held accountable. The book of Proverbs assures its students knowledge of the 'true truth.’
Moreover, many, drawn by the admiration of the masses, though they may seem to advocate righteousness and equality, may pursue injustice and greed as advantageous, unlike their outward praise of fairness. Those instructed by Proverbs will discern between falsehood and genuine integrity. Furthermore, although various external scholars proclaim many doctrines of truth, they mislead the public with their appealing arguments, leaving them unaware of the authentic doctrine. This book, therefore, vows to unveil the ‘true truth’ so that we may steer clear of damaging deceptions.
The varied laws among pagan nations, which can lead to profound discrepancies, muddle the understanding of truth for those without a precise notion of it. Certain pagan tribes may justify patricide, while others condemn all murder. Some may exalt purity above all, while others may indulge in immorality with close relatives. Generally, many, bound by outdated customs, fail to recognize the malice in their actions. Yet, this book, by imparting the ‘true truth,’ liberates individuals from the unreasoning passions within them.
As there exists a truth that resides in us—namely, the equitable distribution of rights to each individual—though we may only imperfectly achieve this, striving with the truest intent will keep us aligned with justice. Similarly, there is a divine truth bestowed upon us by the righteous Judge—one that disciplines and rewards, containing many elements that may remain beyond our grasp due to its profound nature. The Psalmist captures this, stating, ‘Thy truth is as the mountains of God’ (Psalms 35:7). Thus, this book pledges to clearly present this genuinely ‘true and divine truth’ to those who diligently engage with foundational teachings.
Since some sins arise from ignorance while others are committed with malice, the assessment by the Just concerning these transgressions differs. For instance, if two individuals engaged in fornication are judged, one may be compelled into sin due to circumstances, while the other indulges freely in licentious behavior. In this situation, the one coerced into sin might receive clemency, whereas the one who willingly sins faces condemnation.
Additionally, one individual may have sinned due to poor upbringing, being raised by unjust parents amidst immoral influences, whereas another enjoyed numerous opportunities for virtuous behavior—such as honorable guidance and the wisdom of God—yet still fell into the same vice; it is only fitting that the latter faces greater punishment. The former fails because he did not utilize the nurturing influences available to him; the latter is culpable for disregarding his advantages, choosing a path of moral decline through negligence. Therefore, grasping ‘the truth of the truth’ is the endeavor of a truly profound mind and a perfectly righteous heart.
This book hardly asserts that one who learns from parables will be able to accurately study theology. The ultimate truth is Christ, ‘who is wisdom from God, and truth, and sanctification, and deliverance’ (1 Cor. 1:30). The knowledge of the true truth is intrinsically linked with the notion that ‘judgment must be rectified.’ Without a prior understanding of what is just, one cannot judge uncertain matters accurately. Solomon himself, without a clear understanding of justice, would not have been able to render a fair verdict in the well-known case concerning two disreputable women and a child. Lacking any witnesses to their claims, Solomon relied on nature to reveal the truth; the fraudulent woman consented to the child’s demise, while the true mother, propelled by natural affection, could not bear the thought of it.
Thus, whoever truly grasps the ‘true truth’ and learns to attribute what belongs to each person likewise possesses the ability to ‘rectify judgment.’ Just as an archer releases an arrow aimed precisely at the target, the judge should deliver his verdict without bias. He should not favor anyone based on appearances, for it is written, ‘to know ‘the face in judgment is not good’ (Proverbs 24:23), acting impartially and rendering accurate and truthful determinations. When faced with two litigants—a greedy individual and one with little—the judge seeks to balance their claims, ensuring he compensates the aggrieved individual adequately. Conversely, if one lacks the ‘true truth’ in his heart, and is swayed by bribes, friendship, vengeance, or fear of the influential, he cannot ‘rectify judgment.’ To such a person, the Psalm counsels: ‘If indeed ye speak righteousness, judge righteously, O sons of men’ (Psalm 57:2). The righteousness of judgment reflects a righteous disposition.
Solomon later states, ‘The weight is great and small, and the measure is narrow, unclean before the Lord’ (Proverbs 20:10). Here, he uses scales to symbolize dishonesty in the courts. This principle serves not only judges but also in navigating life choices. Within us lies an innate moral compass, enabling us to differentiate between good and evil. When making decisions, we must apply sound judgment—like an impartial judge—supporting virtue and condemning vice.
For instance, in judging fornication against chastity, allow your higher reason, tasked with weighing judgment, to preside; let your passions defend fornication, while your reverence for God champions chastity. If you uphold chastity in your judgment, it will align with righteousness. Conversely, if you surrender to temptation and declare sin as good, will you not find yourself guilty under the condemnation of Him who said, ‘Woe to them that speak … bitter sweet things, and bitter sweet; to them that speak light to darkness, and darkness to light’ (Is. 5:20)? If, as Solomon notes, ‘the thoughts of the righteous judge’ (Proverbs 12:5), we must ensure our inner moral compass judges rightly and that our thoughts serve as a true measure of every action.
When assessing each commandment against its corresponding vice, the law of God grants victory over sin. Should greed and justice come under your scrutiny, denounce greed and affirm justice. When reproach and patience come into conflict, discredit reproach and favor patience. Similarly, should enmity and love contend, reject enmity entirely, while cherishing love as your closest companion. This principle applies universally: whether judging hypocrisy against sincerity, courage against cowardice, prudence against folly, justice against unrighteousness, or chastity against indulgence. When weighing each virtue against its opposing vice, strive to exhibit righteousness in your inner moral court, despising deceit and prioritizing virtue.
If you maintain this practice, ensuring that the best prevails within you, you will find great blessings in this life—‘in this day when God judges in secret by man, according to our gospel among themselves by their thoughts condemning or answering’ (Rom. 2:16, 15). You will not be condemned for your inclination towards evil but will be adorned with crowns of righteousness bestowed upon you for preferring virtue throughout your life. The book of Proverbs offers you innumerable blessings, guiding you to discern ‘true truth and righteous judgment.’
THEOSIS