Proverbs 12:19

Authorized King James Version

The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment.

Word-by-Word Analysis

שְֽׂפַת

H8193

The lip

the lip (as a natural boundary); by implication, language; by analogy, a margin (of a vessel, water, cloth, etc.)

אֱ֭מֶת

H571

of truth

stability; (figuratively) certainty, truth, trustworthiness

תִּכּ֣וֹן

H3559

shall be established

properly, to be erect (i.e., stand perpendicular); hence (causatively) to set up, in a great variety of applications, whether literal (establish, fix,

לָעַ֑ד

H5703

for ever

properly, a (peremptory) terminus, i.e., (by implication) duration, in the sense of advance or perpetuity (substantially as a noun, either with or wit

וְעַד

H5704

as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)

אַ֝רְגִּ֗יעָה

H7280

is but for a moment

properly, to toss violently and suddenly (the sea with waves, the skin with boils); figuratively (in a favorable manner) to settle, i.e., quiet; speci

לְשׁ֣וֹן

H3956

tongue

the tongue (of man or animals), used literally (as the instrument of licking, eating, or speech), and figuratively (speech, an ingot, a fork of flame,

שָֽׁקֶר׃

H8267

but a lying

an untruth; by implication, a sham (often adverbial)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Proverbs. The concept of truth 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

How does this verse's literary context within Proverbs chapter 12 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
In what ways does understanding truth in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?

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Topics

Wisdom