Agur

In this first in-depth study of Proverbs 30, the Words of Agur, Alexander T. Kirk examines a puzzling text attributed to an unknown figure that has long fascinated scholars. While this material has been read as everything from a devout confession to a cry of despair, few interpreters have found any real coherence in the chapter. In this detailed philological study engaging both genre and tone, Kirk demonstrates that the chapter is best read as a coherent collection that mocks pride and greed while it commends humility and contentment. Kirk draws out many subtle literary features that augment Agur’s message, including humor and animal imagery. Ultimately, Proverbs 30 deepens the presentation of wisdom in the book of Proverbs by orienting it toward a proper relationship with God.

King Agur was one of those that contributed to the book of Proverbs, and his writings only came up in the thirtieth chapter of this wisdom book of the Bible. Although there is no record of king Agur in the bible, yet I think, he was one of the acquaintances of the wise King Solomon. His writing style is not too different from King Solomon’s and it is filled with mysteries. King Agur seemed to be writing to a specific audience; he was writing to those who are still weighing their options as to what to do with their lives, and those who are open-minded to understand the deep things of the wise. He was also writing to those who have made the right choice on how to enjoy themselves in their chosen ways of life as well as to encourage and give hope to everyone who seems to have delay in getting result of his chosen good way of life. My friend, the future awaits your arrival in style, and you have to start at it now, regardless of your age and what you have gone or are going through. Your decisions today work out your tomorrow. So, define your future well from now. The wise king was careful in selecting his words and things to compare certain lifestyles with. Join me in exploring King Agur’s 3 but 4 so that we can unveil the mysteries contained therein. Keep your notepad with you so that you can pen down some of the things that strike your heart and so you can use them to put some things in order in your life. And when you are through with the book, I want you to recommend it to everyone you can reach, they will appreciate you for it.

“Learn a simple prayer that will help you find your sweet spot in life.”—Josh McDowell, author of More Than a Carpenter “Give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread.” Proverbs 30:8 This simple, unexpected request from a little-known biblical author named Agur is the only prayer in all of Proverbs, and it offers life-changing potential. Imagine finding new purpose and contentment in your work, personal ministry, and relationships. Open your heart to Agur’s wit and wisdom, and you can learn to • escape imbalance • overcome fear of failure and eliminate envy • joyfully pursue your passions • reap the eternal rewards of trusting God • find your personal sweet spot In our modern, busy lives, embracing balance leads us away from bad decision-making and the emotional cost of trying to do too much or survive with too little. This engaging and practical book faithfully unpacks Agur’s humble prayer. Read it in an evening. Affirm it for a lifetime. Share it with those you love.

Tremper Longman III and Peter E. Enns edit this collection of 148 articles by over 90 contributors on Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, Lamentations, Ruth and Esther.