The same words are spoken from two opposite corners for completely different purposes: “Whoever is unsure of himself, turn in here!” One voice is Wisdom, the other is the foolish woman. They both speak to the weak-willed. Do you ever find yourself wandering around aimlessly, or unable to move at all, unsure of where you should be? Listen carefully. Two distinct voices are speaking to you at those times. 

As I read Proverbs 9 I thought of the wicked witch in The Wizard of Oz. As Glinda, the good witch wrapped her arms around Dorothy for protection, the wicked witch declared: “I’ll get you my pretty, and your little dog too!” her voice coarse, just as the foolish woman’s. Glinda and the wicked witch were both reaching for the same person but with different purposes. The wicked witch wanted only to destroy, while Glinda, the good witch, wanted to help Dorothy get back home safely.

The one says in a gentle voice, “With me your days will be increased; years will be added to your life.” The other says, “Stolen water is sweet; food eaten in secret is pleasant.” The soft voice says, “If you are wise, your wisdom helps you.” The coarse voice is hiding a secret: “The dead are there and those who accept her invitation are in the depths of Sh’ol [Sheol].” 

Wisdom says, “Don’t stay unsure of yourself, but live! Walk in the way of understanding! Wisdom has prepared her food, spiced her wine, and she has set her table.” The foolish woman “doesn’t even think, and she doesn’t know a thing.” She hasn’t prepared anything for your comfort or pleasure. She simply wants you to join her in hell. Father gives you free will. Choose Wisdom and live! A joy-filled eternity is just around the corner.