Proverbs 11:6

Authorized King James Version

The righteousness of the upright shall deliver them: but transgressors shall be taken in their own naughtiness.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
צִדְקַ֣ת
The righteousness
rightness (abstractly), subjectively (rectitude), objectively (justice), morally (virtue) or figuratively (prosperity)
#2
יְ֭שָׁרִים
of the upright
straight (literally or figuratively)
#3
תַּצִּילֵ֑ם
shall deliver
to snatch away, whether in a good or a bad sense
#4
וּ֝בְהַוַּ֗ת
in their own naughtiness
by implication, of falling); desire; also ruin
#5
בֹּגְדִ֥ים
them but transgressors
to cover (with a garment); figuratively, to act covertly; by implication, to pillage
#6
יִלָּכֵֽדוּ׃
shall be taken
to catch (in a net, trap or pit); generally, to capture or occupy; also to choose (by lot); figuratively, to cohere

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Proverbs. The concept of righteousness 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

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Proverbs Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes righteousness in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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