Proverbs 10:31

Authorized King James Version

The mouth of the just bringeth forth wisdom: but the froward tongue shall be cut out.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
פִּֽי
The mouth
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
#2
צַ֭דִּיק
of the just
just
#3
יָנ֣וּב
bringeth forth
to germinate, i.e., (figuratively) to (causatively, make) flourish; also (of words), to utter
#4
חָכְמָ֑ה
wisdom
wisdom (in a good sense)
#5
וּלְשׁ֥וֹן
tongue
the tongue (of man or animals), used literally (as the instrument of licking, eating, or speech), and figuratively (speech, an ingot, a fork of flame,
#6
תַּ֝הְפֻּכ֗וֹת
but the froward
a perversity or fraud
#7
תִּכָּרֵֽת׃
shall be cut out
to cut (off, down or asunder); by implication, to destroy or consume; specifically, to covenant (i.e., make an alliance or bargain, originally by cutt

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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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