Proverbs 10:6

Authorized King James Version

Blessings are upon the head of the just: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בְּ֭רָכוֹת
Blessings
benediction; by implication prosperity
#2
לְרֹ֣אשׁ
are upon the head
the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)
#3
צַדִּ֑יק
of the just
just
#4
וּפִ֥י
the mouth
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
#5
רְ֝שָׁעִ֗ים
of the wicked
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
#6
יְכַסֶּ֥ה
covereth
properly, to plump, i.e., fill up hollows; by implication, to cover (for clothing or secrecy)
#7
חָמָֽס׃
but violence
violence; by implication, wrong; by metonymy unjust gain

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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