Question

Bullock showed how OT wisdom was in some way similar to that found in other places, especially Egypt. What Egyptian literature was similar to Proverbs 22:17 - 24:22 and how was it similar?

Answer 1

The Egyptian Instruction of Amenemope is similar to the biblical Book of Proverbs 22:17 - 24:22 in structure, themes, and phrases, reflecting a shared ancient Near Eastern wisdom tradition.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Egyptian literature similar to Proverbs 22:17 - 24:22 is the Instruction of Amenemope, an ancient Egyptian wisdom text from the New Kingdom period. Much debate has revolved around the relationship between these two bodies of work. The Instruction of Amenemope is considered to bear striking similarities to the biblical Book of Proverbs, particularly in terms of structure, themes, and specific phrases. Bullock specifically noted the comparisons between the forms of wisdom recorded within the Egyptian text and those found in the Old Testament (OT).

For example, both texts emphasize prudent behavior, proper conduct, social justice, and the avoidance of strife. Phrases within Proverbs 22 and 23 echo teachings found in the Instruction of Amenemope. Scholars have pointed out parallelisms between the two works that suggest a shared cultural or instructional wisdom tradition extending across the Near East. This would mean that what is often ascribed uniquely to Hebrew wisdom, in this case, has a broader ancient context wherein these ideas were prevalent.