Define 'the fear of the LORD' and explain its central role in Proverbs.

• A. Awe, reverence, and submission to God that grounds all true wisdom; it is the starting point of knowledge.
• B. Fear that God will punish people always, leading to moral discipline.
• C. A ceremonial act of worship performed by religious leaders.
• D. A concept about human fear of the unknown and death.

Answer: (A)