Proverbs 1:5

Authorized King James Version

A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels:

Word-by-Word Analysis

יִשְׁמַ֣ע

H8085

man will hear

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

חָ֭כָם

H2450

A wise

wise, (i.e., intelligent, skilful or artful)

וְי֣וֹסֶף

H3254

and will increase

to add or augment (often adverbial, to continue to do a thing)

לֶ֑קַח

H3948

learning

properly, something received, i.e., (mentally) instruction (whether on the part of the teacher or hearer); also (in an active and sinister sense) inve

וְ֝נָב֗וֹן

H995

and a man of understanding

to separate mentally (or distinguish), i.e., (generally) understand

תַּחְבֻּל֥וֹת

H8458

unto wise counsels

(only in plural) properly, steerage (as a management of ropes), i.e., (figuratively) guidance or (by implication) a plan

יִקְנֶֽה׃

H7069

shall attain

to erect, i.e., create; by extension, to procure, especially by purchase (causatively, sell); by implication to own

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

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
How does this verse's literary context within Proverbs chapter 1 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?

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Topics

Wisdom