Proverbs 30:1

the prophecy Lit. the burden, as the word is frequently rendered (e.g. Zechariah 9:1; Malachi 1:1, where see notes in this Series). It may mean either burdenfrom its weighty character, as a Divine announcement, or oracle, or prophecy, as being "taken up" (comp. Numbers 23:18) by the speaker.

The reading of R.V. marg. Jakeh of Massa, making Massa a proper name, is however preferred by some scholars. See Proverbs 31:1, note.

the man a title of excellence (vir), used of himself as a prophet or teacher by Balaam, Numbers 24:3, and by David, 2 Samuel 23:1.

spake or saith. The word is commonly used of Divine or oracular utterance, as in the frequent phrase, "saith, the Lord."

lthiel and Ucal He addresses himself to his favourite disciple, associating with him another scarcely less favoured, and through them to every one that has an ear to hear.