Proverbs 11:3

Authorized King James Version

The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
תֻּמַּ֣ת
The integrity
innocence
#2
יְשָׁרִ֣ים
of the upright
straight (literally or figuratively)
#3
תַּנְחֵ֑ם
shall guide
to guide; by implication, to transport (into exile, or as colonists)
#4
וְסֶ֖לֶף
them but the perverseness
distortion, i.e., (figuratively) viciousness
#5
בֹּגְדִ֣ים
of transgressors
to cover (with a garment); figuratively, to act covertly; by implication, to pillage
#6
וְשָׁדֵּֽם׃
shall destroy
properly, to be burly, i.e., (figuratively) powerful (passively, impregnable); by implication, to ravage

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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