When was Proverbs written?

Readers have benefited from the wisdom found in the book of Proverbs for centuries. Its sayings encourage righteous living and warn against foolish decisions. Solomon, the son of David and third king of Israel, wrote or compiled most of the book. The sections he wrote date to his reign, from about 970 to 931 BC. However, the anonymous proverbs he compiled could have predated his lifetime and are difficult to date precisely. Agur and Lemuel wrote the final two chapters of Proverbs, respectively. Unfortunately, little is known about them, including when they wrote.

The first verse of Proverbs identifies Solomon as its author: “The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel” (Proverbs 1:1). Specifically, he wrote Proverbs 1:1—22:16. However, Solomon is the compiler, rather than the author, of the “Sayings of the Wise,” found in Proverbs 22:17—24:34. Additionally, a man named Augur wrote Proverbs 30, and a man named Lemuel wrote Proverbs 31. Thus, the opening verse of the book serves more as a general title. It highlights Solomon’s pivotal contribution to the book but does not indicate he is its sole author.

Solomon, the primary author of the book, wrote chapters 1—9, which consist of longer poetic passages. Since Solomon reigned from approximately 970 to 931 BC, these chapters are typically dated to that period. The insights and advice he offers come from the wisdom God gave him. First Kings 4:29 says, “God gave Solomon wisdom and very great insight, and a breadth of understanding as measureless as the sand on the seashore.” Solomon is also considered the author of Proverbs 10:1—22:16, as the heading of this section states, “The proverbs of Solomon” (Proverbs 10:1). This section differs from the first nine chapters—not in authorship but in style—as it consists of short, concise sayings rather than extended poetic discourse.

Solomon is also the author of Proverbs chapters 25—29. However, the proverbs in this section were not compiled until King Hezekiah’s reign, which lasted from about 715 to 686 BC. The first verse in this section reveals this historical detail: “These are more proverbs of Solomon, compiled by the men of Hezekiah king of Judah” (Proverbs 25:1).

The last two chapters of Proverbs are difficult to date due to the limited information about their authors. Some scholars speculate that Agur and Lemuel may have served in the courts of David or Solomon, though there is no direct evidence to confirm this. As Proverbs 30:1 reads, Agur wrote this chapter: “The sayings of Agur son of Jakeh.” Although this chapter records his reflections, there is no historical data indicating his role in Israel, when he lived, or when he wrote the proverb.

Then, according to the first verse of chapter 31, Lemuel wrote the final chapter of the book: “The sayings of King Lemuel.” Chapter 31 provides some biographical information about Lemuel, such as the fact that his mother imparted wisdom to him. However, as in the case of Agur, there is no information that helps determine when Lemuel lived or when he wrote the proverb.

The book of Proverbs continues to edify the lives of those who study and apply its teachings. Proverbs 1:7 reflects the theme of the entire book: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” Sadly, Solomon did not consistently follow his own advice about choosing righteousness in his life (cf. 1 Kings 11:11). Nevertheless, Proverbs continues to guide readers who desire to live wisely and faithfully.