Proverbs 12:8

Authorized King James Version

A man shall be commended according to his wisdom: but he that is of a perverse heart shall be despised.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לְֽפִי
according
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
#2
שִׂ֭כְלוֹ
to his wisdom
intelligence; by implication, success
#3
יְהֻלַּל
shall be commended
to be clear (orig. of sound, but usually of color); to shine; hence, to make a show, to boast; and thus to be (clamorously) foolish; to rave; causativ
#4
אִ֑ישׁ
A man
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
#5
וְנַעֲוֵה
but he that is of a perverse
to crook, literally or figuratively
#6
לֵ֝֗ב
heart
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
#7
יִהְיֶ֥ה
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#8
לָבֽוּז׃
shall be despised
disrespect

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing wisdom contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 wisdom. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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