Who is the speaker in Proverbs 13:20?

The Book of Proverbs is a treasure trove of wisdom literature, offering guidance and insights into living a life that is pleasing to God and beneficial to oneself and others. Proverbs 13:20 states, "Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm" (NIV). Understanding who the speaker is in this verse requires us to delve into the broader context of the Book of Proverbs, its authorship, and its purpose.

The primary author of Proverbs is King Solomon, who is renowned for his wisdom. 1 Kings 4:29-34 describes Solomon’s wisdom as unparalleled, a gift from God that he used to write many proverbs and songs. Although Solomon is the principal author, the book also includes sayings from other wise men, such as Agur (Proverbs 30) and King Lemuel (Proverbs 31).

In Proverbs 13:20, the speaker is generally understood to be Solomon himself or a voice representing the collective wisdom of the sages. Solomon's proverbs are intended to instruct and guide the reader in the ways of wisdom, contrasting the outcomes of wise behavior with those of foolishness. The verse under consideration succinctly encapsulates this theme by emphasizing the importance of one's associations.

To understand the speaker's perspective in Proverbs 13:20, we must recognize that the proverbs are often written in the form of a father instructing his son. This paternal voice is evident throughout the book, beginning in the early chapters where Solomon explicitly addresses his "son" (Proverbs 1:8, 2:1, 3:1). This familial tone conveys a sense of care, concern, and authority, as a father would naturally desire the best for his child.

The wisdom imparted in Proverbs 13:20 is both practical and spiritual. The phrase "Walk with the wise and become wise" underscores the transformative power of wise companionship. Wisdom, in the biblical sense, is not merely intellectual knowledge but encompasses moral and spiritual understanding. Proverbs 9:10 states, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." Therefore, walking with the wise involves more than just acquiring knowledge; it involves living a life that honors God.

Conversely, the latter part of the verse, "for a companion of fools suffers harm," serves as a stark warning. The Hebrew word for "fools" here is "kesilim," which implies more than just a lack of intelligence; it denotes moral deficiency and obstinacy. Fools, in the context of Proverbs, are those who reject wisdom and instruction, leading to destructive consequences. Proverbs 14:7 advises, "Stay away from a fool, for you will not find knowledge on their lips." The harm mentioned in Proverbs 13:20 can manifest in various ways—spiritual, emotional, and even physical.

The speaker's intent is to guide the reader towards making wise choices in their relationships. The underlying principle is that our associations significantly influence our character and destiny. This idea is echoed in the New Testament as well. 1 Corinthians 15:33 warns, "Do not be misled: 'Bad company corrupts good character.'" The consistent biblical message is that our companions can either edify us or lead us astray.

In the broader context of Proverbs, the speaker's identity as Solomon or a wise sage is less crucial than the divine wisdom being conveyed. The proverbs are inspired by God and are intended to impart His wisdom to humanity. Proverbs 2:6 declares, "For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding." Therefore, the speaker in Proverbs 13:20 is ultimately a conduit for God's wisdom.

Christian literature also supports this understanding. In his commentary on Proverbs, Derek Kidner notes that the proverbs are designed to be memorized and meditated upon, allowing their wisdom to permeate the reader's life. Kidner emphasizes that the proverbs are practical guides for daily living, rooted in the fear of the Lord.

Moreover, the wisdom literature of the Old Testament, including Proverbs, is not merely about personal piety but also about communal well-being. The speaker in Proverbs 13:20 is concerned with the broader implications of one's associations, recognizing that wise living contributes to the health and stability of the community. This communal aspect is evident in the repeated calls to justice, righteousness, and integrity throughout the book.

In summary, the speaker in Proverbs 13:20 is a wise sage, most likely Solomon, who imparts divine wisdom through pithy and memorable sayings. This verse, like many others in Proverbs, offers practical and spiritual guidance, urging the reader to choose their companions wisely. The wisdom conveyed is timeless, emphasizing that walking with the wise leads to wisdom, while associating with fools leads to harm. This principle is rooted in the broader biblical narrative, which consistently highlights the importance of godly relationships and the transformative power of divine wisdom.