Proverbs 12:6

Authorized King James Version

The words of the wicked are to lie in wait for blood: but the mouth of the upright shall deliver them.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
דִּבְרֵ֣י
The words
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#2
רְשָׁעִ֣ים
of the wicked
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
#3
אֱרָב
are to lie in wait
to lurk
#4
דָּ֑ם
for blood
blood (as that which when shed causes death) of man or an animal; by analogy, the juice of the grape; figuratively (especially in the plural) bloodshe
#5
וּפִ֥י
but the mouth
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
#6
יְ֝שָׁרִ֗ים
of the upright
straight (literally or figuratively)
#7
יַצִּילֵֽם׃
shall deliver
to snatch away, whether in a good or a bad sense

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Proverbs. The concept of divine revelation 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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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