This chapter begins a new collection of proverbs and sayings, likely gathered during King Hezekiah’s reign. A few sayings mentioning the king serve as an introduction. Above all are God and his righteous sovereignty, followed immediately by the king, although it is clear that the royal figure is subject to God and his plans. The king is seen as the measure of society, so one should not boast before him or feel shame before a nobleman. Personal attitudes should draw the attention of the great naturally, hence the saying, “It is better to hear, ‘Come up here,’ than to be humiliated before the nobles” (7). Jesus uses a similar image to teach his followers not to imitate the disrespectful habit of the scribes and Pharisees, who loved to occupy the seats of honor at banquets (cf. Lk 14:8-11). These proverbs are aimed at people who are close to the court; therefore, they serve as rules of behavior and civility.