15:4 tree of life. This is the fourth metaphorical allusion to the tree of life in Proverbs. See note on Proverbs 3:18.
15:11 Hell and destruction. “Hell and destruction” are sheol and abaddon in the Hebrew. Sheol is the place of departed spirits, deep in the heart of the earth. Abaddon (meaning “Destroyer”) seems to be either a name for Satan or for one of the princes in his evil hierarchy (note Revelation 9:11).
15:33 instruction of wisdom. The fear of the Lord is not only the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10), but also its “instruction.” The Hebrew word actually means “discipline” or “chastisement.”
