Proverbs 22:20

thirty sayings: Early scribes observed that the Hebrew word for thirty was written in an unusual form (shlshwm) instead of the usual form (shlyshym). All early translations of the Old Testament, such as the Greek Septuagint, Latin Vulgate, and Syriac Peshitta, interpret it as thirty. However, some choose to translate the word as excellent sayings.

Like the prologue in the book of Proverbs (Proverbs 1:2–7) and the introductions to the individual discourses (see Proverbs 1:8–9; 2:1–11), this section starts by encouraging listening. This wisdom goes beyond practical advice; it aims to inspire trust in the Lord.

This section is attributed to a group known as the wise, but their identity is unknown. There is a mention of thirty sayings (Proverbs 22:20). The wisdom sayings that follow can be divided into thirty sections. These sections are similar to an Egyptian work called the Instruction of Amenemope, which is also divided into thirty chapters.