Introduction:
Augur's is a term primarily associated with the biblical figure Agur, the son of Jakeh, who is credited with a section of the Book of Proverbs. This entry explores the identity, contributions, and theological significance of Agur as presented in the Scriptures.

Identity of Agur:
Agur is a somewhat enigmatic figure in the Bible, mentioned explicitly in Proverbs 30:1. The verse states, "The words of Agur son of Jakeh, the oracle: This man declared to Ithiel, to Ithiel and Ucal." Little is known about Agur outside of this passage, and his name does not appear elsewhere in the biblical text. The name "Agur" is thought to mean "collector" or "gatherer," which may imply his role in gathering wisdom or proverbs.

Proverbs 30:
The chapter attributed to Agur is a collection of sayings and observations that reflect a deep understanding of human nature and divine wisdom. Agur's words are characterized by humility, a quest for knowledge, and a recognition of human limitations. Proverbs 30:2-3 states, "Surely I am the most ignorant of men, and I lack the understanding of a man. I have not learned wisdom, and I have no knowledge of the Holy One." This self-deprecating introduction sets the tone for the rest of the chapter, emphasizing the importance of seeking wisdom from God.

Themes and Teachings:
Agur's teachings in Proverbs 30 cover a range of themes, including the nature of God, the folly of pride, and the value of contentment. One of the most notable passages is Proverbs 30:7-9, where Agur prays, "Two things I ask of You—do not refuse me before I die: Keep falsehood and deceitful words far from me. Give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the bread that is my portion. Otherwise, I may have too much and deny You, saying, 'Who is the LORD?' Or I may become poor and steal, profaning the name of my God." This prayer reflects a desire for integrity and balance, avoiding the extremes that can lead one away from God.

Numerical Sayings:
Agur's chapter is also known for its numerical sayings, a literary device used to convey wisdom through lists. Examples include Proverbs 30:18-19, "There are three things that are too wonderful for me, four that I cannot understand: the way of an eagle in the sky, the way of a serpent on a rock, the way of a ship in the heart of the sea, and the way of a man with a maiden." These sayings invite reflection on the mysteries of creation and human relationships.

Theological Significance:
Agur's contribution to the Book of Proverbs underscores the biblical theme of wisdom as a divine gift. His acknowledgment of human ignorance and dependence on God aligns with the broader scriptural narrative that true wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 9:10). Agur's teachings encourage believers to pursue a life of humility, integrity, and reliance on God's provision.

Conclusion:
While Agur remains a mysterious figure, his words in Proverbs 30 offer timeless insights into the pursuit of wisdom and the nature of a life lived in reverence to God. His teachings continue to resonate with those seeking to understand the complexities of life through the lens of divine truth.AUGUR'S OAK

o'-gurs' ok: If we translated the Hebrew verb `onen, "to practice augury" (see AUGURY) we should in Judges 9:37 for "the oak of Meonemm" render "the augurs' oak" as in the Revised Version, margin, for the last word is simply the part. of the same verb and means "one who practices augury," though there is some doubt as to the exact connotation of the word. See under DIVINATION.

The English Versions of the Bible make this noun the name of a place; but no such place is known and the derivation and form of the word are clear and certain. We have a similar phrase similarly misunderstood by our translators in Genesis 12:6 where the "oak of Moreh" should be "the oak" (or "terebinth?") "of the diviner" or "augur," for moreh is also a part. = "one who teaches" or "directs." Probably the same tree is meant, since in each ease the neighborhood is that of Shechem. The worship of trees, or rather the deity supposed to make them his home, has prevailed very widely. See W. R. Smith, Rel. Semitic. (2), 195; compare Judges 4:5 2 Samuel 5:24 and "the oak of Zeus at Dodona." In Judges 9:6 we read of a "matstsebhah, oak tree": the tree with an altar on which sacrifices were offered. The oak trees of Genesis 12:6 and of Judges 9:37, if two distinct trees are meant, would be trees which the Canaanites had been in the habit of consulting: hence, the name.

T. Witton Davies

The Sack of Rome
... Before assuming office, he studied gravely the sacred fowls in their cages, traced
circles in the sky with the augur's wand, and marked the flight of birds. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/bertrand/saint augustin/i the sack of rome.htm

The Upbringing of Jewish Children
... Then Proverbs 31 embodies the words of Augur's royal brother, even "the words of
Lemuel, king of Massa, with which his mother taught him." If the very names of ...
/.../edersheim/sketches of jewish social life/chapter 7 the upbringing of.htm

Augur's
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia AUGUR'S OAK. o'-gurs' ok: If we translated
the Hebrew verb `onen, "to practice augury" (see AUGURY ...
/a/augur's.htm - 8k

Oak (22 Occurrences)
... 2. (n.) The strong wood or timber of the oak. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia.
AUGUR'S OAK. ... Where this tree stood is not known. See AUGUR'S OAK. MOREH, OAK OF. ...
/o/oak.htm - 33k

Augury (5 Occurrences)
... 2. (n.) An omen; prediction; prognostication; indication of the future; presage.
3. (n.) A rite, ceremony, or observation of an augur. Int. ...
/a/augury.htm - 17k

Auguries (4 Occurrences)

/a/auguries.htm - 7k

Meonenim (1 Occurrence)
... Judges 9:6, etc.). Where this tree stood is not known. See AUGUR'S OAK.
Multi-Version Concordance Meonenim (1 Occurrence). Judges 9:37 ...
/m/meonenim.htm - 8k

Divination (25 Occurrences)
... customary in reciting the prescribed formula (see CHARM). For "oak of the
me`onim" see AUGUR'S OAK. Some say the word means one who ...
/d/divination.htm - 45k

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