Interpreting Biblical Proverbs and ChatGPT
Inductive Bible Study Questions to aid your understanding of biblical Proverbs.
The Book of Proverbs is a collection of wise sayings (proverbs). Some proverbs are a single verse and others carry the same them/idea across several verses. First you need to figure out if this proverb is a single verse or multiple verses and then separate it out to interpret on its own.
What follows is my humble attempt to suggest a simple framework for interpreting biblical proverbs. And if you must, you can plug these questions into a chatbot for an instant answer (with varying degrees of success).
1. What sort of proverb is this? Is it a Descriptive proverb? Is it a Prescriptive proverb? Is it a better than proverb/comparison, or a numerical proverb? Is it an antithetical proverb?
Descriptive - Descriptive proverbs present uncomplicated observations about life, focusing solely on general observations without considering any exceptions or specific circumstances.
Prescriptive - A prescriptive proverb extends beyond mere observation of significant aspects of life. Its purpose lies in stating truths with a clear aim to actively shape and guide human behavior.
Better than/comparison – Such comparisons serve the purpose of highlighting the excellence of specific character traits or personal conduct in comparison to others.
Numerical – make their point with a numerical formula, “three things are…”, etc.
Antithetical - They use strong differences to show how important it is to be wise and how unattractive it is to be foolish. They put two things or people next to each other that are opposite. Then we have to figure out which one the proverb likes and why it is better.
Principle for interpretation: “Proverbs teach probable truth, not absolute truth. By nature, proverbs are not absolute promises from God that guarantee the promised outcome if one follows them. Rather, they point out patterns of conduct that, if followed, give one the best chance of success, all things being equal.”[1]
2. What other proverbs address this same topic? What other biblical verses or stories discuss the same idea as this proverb? (See chain reference notes or study Bible notes.)
3. Are there any reasonable exceptions to this proverb?
4. What 21st century real life circumstances would parallel the situation of the proverb?
5. How can we apply the general principle of this proverb to our life in the 21st century?
[1] William W. Klein, Craig L. Blomberg, and Robert L. Hubbard Jr., Introduction to Biblical Interpretation, Third Edition. (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2017), 496.
How about an example question and how the chatbot answered?