Proverbs 12:20

Authorized King James Version

Deceit is in the heart of them that imagine evil: but to the counsellors of peace is joy.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מִ֭רְמָה
Deceit
fraud
#2
בְּלֶב
is in the heart
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
#3
חֹ֣רְשֵׁי
of them that imagine
to scratch, i.e., (by implication) to engrave, plough; hence (from the use of tools) to fabricate (of any material); figuratively, to devise (in a bad
#4
רָ֑ע
evil
bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)
#5
וּֽלְיֹעֲצֵ֖י
but to the counsellors
to advise; reflexively, to deliberate or resolve
#6
שָׁל֣וֹם
of peace
safe, i.e., (figuratively) well, happy, friendly; also (abstractly) welfare, i.e., health, prosperity, peace
#7
שִׂמְחָֽה׃
is joy
blithesomeness or glee, (religious or festival)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Proverbs. The concept of peace 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 peace in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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