Your word, Lord, is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.   Psalm 119:105

In the last section of Proverbs, Chapter 1, Solomon uses personification (giving human-like characteristics to something non-human).
20)) Out in the open Wisdom calls aloud,
she raises her voice in the public square;
21)) on top of the wall she cries out,
at the city gate she makes her speech:
22)) “How long will you who are simple love your simple ways?
How long will mockers delight in mockery
and fools hate knowledge?”

The reason for using personification when writing is to make a word come alive for the reader.  It is much easier to relate to a person than an inanimate object.

In these verses, Solomon presents a cause/effect relationship. IF people pay attention to the Proverbs, following Wisdom’s direction and guidance, THEN they will become wise (when they apply the knowledge they’ve obtained).

We will also see, throughout the Book of Proverbs, the words simple and fool.  These words do not refer to people who are academically challenged, but rather are deficient in their character.  The simple/fool are challenged to recognize right from wrong.

In verse 22, Solomon questions, “when are you going to learn that your choices are messing you up?”

It is wisdom (applying knowledge) that helps us recognize that the path we’re on is destructive. And wisdom that confirms the path we’re on is healthy and God-honoring.