The biblical book of Proverbs is an example of wisdom literature that was common in the ancient Near East. The non-biblical writings of the sages of that period used literary forms and dealt with themes that appear also in Proverbs - themes such as the meaning of creation, the value of hard work and the importance of moral integrity. "Proverbs" is a collection of sayings, poems, and guiding principles that exhorts its readers to seek the higher ideals - knowledge, discipline, piety, and order - and offers guidance on how to live in harmony with God, others, and one's self.