Thursday of the Twenty-fifth Week in Ordinary Time - Ms. Joan Watson

The Book of Proverbs is the principal wisdom book of the Old Testament, containing 31 chapters of pithy sayings, extended discourses, and numerical observations that address every dimension of daily life—from speech and work to relationships and governance. Primarily attributed to King Solomon, the book also includes collections from the wise, Agur son of Jakeh, and King Lemuel. Its theological foundation is that 'the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom,' and it personifies wisdom as a woman who played a role in creation. The book compiles 513 of Solomon's over 3,000 proverbs along with wisdom from others he likely influenced.

Ecclesiastes is a philosophical and theological reflection on human existence and the meaning of life. It is presented through the voice of Qohelet (the Preacher), who questions the doctrine of retributive justice and observes that human endeavors are often futile and temporary. The book emphasizes the inevitability of death, the limitations of human wisdom, and the dangers of materialism and hedonism. It concludes by advising readers to fear God and keep His commandments as the foundation of true happiness and purpose.