Proverbs 1:21

Authorized King James Version

She crieth in the chief place of concourse, in the openings of the gates: in the city she uttereth her words, saying,

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בְּרֹ֥אשׁ
in the chief place
the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)
#2
הֹמִיּ֗וֹת
of concourse
to make a loud sound (like english 'hum'); by implication, to be in great commotion or tumult, to rage, war, moan, clamor
#3
תִּ֫קְרָ֥א
She crieth
to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)
#4
בְּפִתְחֵ֖י
in the openings
an opening (literally), i.e., door (gate) or entrance way
#5
שְׁעָרִ֥ים
of the gates
an opening, i.e., door or gate
#6
בָּעִ֗יר
in the city
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
#7
אֲמָרֶ֥יהָ
her words
something said
#8
תֹאמֵֽר׃
she uttereth
to say (used with great latitude)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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