As we enter the new millennium, the search for wisdom is on, with no better place to look than the book of Proverbs. It transcends the ages with timeless wisdom: -- "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge". -- "For the Lord grants wisdom, at his behest come knowledge and good sense". -- "Happy the man who has found wisdom, the man who obtains good sense. For better her profit than the profit of silver, her yield than that of fine gold. More precious is she than rubies; no valuables can match her". -- "Attend, my son, and take my words, that the years of your life may increase".In "Proverbs 1-9", Bible scholar Michael V. Fox translates and explains the meaning of the first nine chapters of this profound book. A thorough introduction to Proverb, highlighted by an examination of the Egyptian wisdom tradition, as well as a survey of ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature, provide the basis of detailed and insightful comments. In addition to the translation and commentary proper, Fox includes several extended thematic essays and textual notes on Proverbs 1-9, covering such themes as the origins of personified wisdom, what wisdom is, and where wisdom can be found. This substantive book, the first of a two-volume set, at last accords Proverbs the depth of study it deserves, and will assure it a life in print at least as long as the original 1965 Anchor Bible Commentary, Proverbs/Ecclesiastes.