Wise saying #4:
“Do not move the ancient landmark that your fathers have set.” (Proverbs 22:28)
At first glance, this short proverb by the Wiseman simply warns against moving boundary stones in an attempt to underhandedly seize land. However, there is much more involved here than the protection of property rights (we will cover that with saying #10; 23:10-11).
It was God who gave the Israelites their land and established its boundaries through the sacred lot (cf. Joshua 14-19). So then, to move such a marker was an affront to God and His authority. Therefore, a curse was upon anyone who dared move a God-established ancient landmark (cf. Deuteronomy 27:17). Today, many seek to remove the landmarks of the ancient “faith that was once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 3). In a blatant affront to God, many within Christendom are moving the ancient landmarks found in God’s Holy word. The old path teachings and doctrines are being cast aside for something more palatable for the carnal appetites of men. Yet, in unambiguous terms the apostle Paul warns, “But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed” (Galatians 1:8). So today friend, examine your beliefs against God’s word. If you find an ancient landmark has been moved the by all means move it back; realigning yourself with the God-established teachings found in Scripture. May the Lord richly bless you and guide you to all truth.
This week’s theme: The Thirty Sayings of the Wiseman
It is easy to lower the bar or to move the goalposts; but in a game in which each player makes up his own rules, there can be no true winner. God bless!
So true. Thank you for sharing SaintlySages and blessings to you as well.
I love this Proverbs series you are doing. It helps me to better understand what they mean. Thanks!!!
Thanks. It’s my pleasure.
II wonder if the interpretation of this proverb relates to foundations of beliefs rather than actual
land bounderies.
Regards and good will blogging.
I agree scatterwisdom. As I mentioned in the post a similar warning is used in 23:10-11 which seems to be all about actual land boundaries.