Two ladies are discussed in this chapter — Lady Wisdom and Lady Folly. It’s pretty clear that everything Lady Wisdom is and stands for (:1-9), Lady Folly doesn’t (:13-18)!
By definition, folly — being a “fool” — represents the inability or unwillingness to have God in the equation for decision-making in our lives (Psalms 14:1). So, it’s not surprising to read the three things said about Lady Folly in verse 13.
She’s “unruly,” “simple,” and “knows nothing.” “Unruly” with both God and other people, she’ll consistently do things her way.
Folly’s also “simple,” which doesn’t mean stupid. Instead, without God in the picture, she continually makes impulsive, uninformed decisions that will hurt her and others.
She also “knows nothing” about how to really enjoy life as God intends. This is a sad case – but it’s true about many of us today, too.
Maybe even more tragic — this lady’s going to take others down with her!
Verse 14 says, “She sits at the door of her house, on a seat at the highest point of the city.” The first represents her private domain where she invites people to come — and where bad stuff happens!
The second is in public where she is “calling to those who pass by, who go straight on their way” (:15). She’s seeking the attention of anyone (“those who pass by”), including those minding their own business (“who go straight on their way”).
Sometimes we find trouble…sometimes trouble finds us!
But, either way God’s Wisdom can help us see and walk another way (:1-6)!