Proverbs 11:5

Authorized King James Version

The righteousness of the perfect shall direct his way: but the wicked shall fall by his own wickedness.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
צִדְקַ֣ת
The righteousness
rightness (abstractly), subjectively (rectitude), objectively (justice), morally (virtue) or figuratively (prosperity)
#2
תָּ֭מִים
of the perfect
entire (literally, figuratively or morally); also (as noun) integrity, truth
#3
תְּיַשֵּׁ֣ר
shall direct
to be straight or even; figuratively, to be (causatively, to make) right, pleasant, prosperous
#4
דַּרְכּ֑וֹ
his way
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
#5
וּ֝בְרִשְׁעָת֗וֹ
by his own wickedness
wrong (especially moral)
#6
יִפֹּ֥ל
shall fall
to fall, in a great variety of applications (intransitive or causative, literal or figurative)
#7
רָשָֽׁע׃
but the wicked
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person

Analysis

Within the broader context of Proverbs, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of righteousness connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about righteousness, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Proverbs.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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