Proverbs 10:21

Authorized King James Version

The lips of the righteous feed many: but fools die for want of wisdom.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
שִׂפְתֵ֣י
The lips
the lip (as a natural boundary); by implication, language; by analogy, a margin (of a vessel, water, cloth, etc.)
#2
צַ֭דִּיק
of the righteous
just
#3
יִרְע֣וּ
feed
to tend a flock; i.e., pasture it; intransitively, to graze (literally or figuratively); generally to rule; by extension, to associate with (as a frie
#4
רַבִּ֑ים
many
abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)
#5
וֶֽ֝אֱוִילִ֗ים
but fools
(figuratively) silly
#6
בַּחֲסַר
for want
lacking; hence, without
#7
לֵ֥ב
of wisdom
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
#8
יָמֽוּתוּ׃
die
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Proverbs. The concept of wisdom 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 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 wisdom. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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