Proverbs 1:4

Authorized King James Version

To give subtilty to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לָתֵ֣ת
To give
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#2
לִפְתָאיִ֣ם
to the simple
silly (i.e., seducible)
#3
עָרְמָ֑ה
subtilty
trickery; or (in a good sense) discretion
#4
לְ֝נַ֗עַר
to the young man
(concretely) a boy (as active), from the age of infancy to adolescence; by implication, a servant; also (by interch. of sex), a girl (of similar latit
#5
דַּ֣עַת
knowledge
knowledge
#6
וּמְזִמָּֽה׃
and discretion
a plan, usually evil (machination), sometimes good (sagacity)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Proverbs. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Proverbs Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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