Problematic, difficult, and puzzling are three words sometimes used to describe Proverbs chapter 30. In fact, the problems of the first verse are so great that some Bible commentators say they are unsolvable. McKane (644) highlights the difficulties when he says, “In such a verse, where there is hardly a glimmer of light, one feels powerless to make even the first move towards its elucidation.” Let us wrestle with this verse and seek to find some answers. One of the main problems which demands our attention is the problem of authorship.

After fleeing from Esau, Jacob arrived in Haran. Immediately he met Rachel. The meeting was love at first sight. Rachel was “beautiful and well favored” (29:17). Jacob evidently was strong and muscular, for while the shepherds of three flocks (29:2) could not roll the rock from the well’s opening, Jacob, upon seeing Rachel, “went near, and rolled the stone from the well’s mouth” (29:10). Jacob spent a month in Laban’s home. No doubt, during this month, he spent much time with Rachel and fell more in love with her.