Proverbs 11:29

Authorized King James Version

He that troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind: and the fool shall be servant to the wise of heart.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
עֹכֵ֣ר
He that troubleth
properly, to roil water; figuratively, to disturb or affict
#2
בֵּ֭יתוֹ
his own house
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
#3
יִנְחַל
shall inherit
to inherit (as a (figurative) mode of descent), or (generally) to occupy; causatively, to bequeath, or (generally) distribute, instate
#4
ר֑וּחַ
the wind
wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the
#5
וְעֶ֥בֶד
shall be servant
a servant
#6
אֱ֝וִ֗יל
and the fool
(figuratively) silly
#7
לַחֲכַם
to the wise
wise, (i.e., intelligent, skilful or artful)
#8
לֵֽב׃
of heart
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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