Proverbs 13:2

Authorized King James Version

A man shall eat good by the fruit of his mouth: but the soul of the transgressors shall eat violence.

Word-by-Word Analysis

מִפְּרִ֣י

H6529

by the fruit

fruit (literally or figuratively)

פִי

H6310

of his mouth

the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos

אִ֭ישׁ

H376

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)

יֹ֣אכַל

H398

shall eat

to eat (literally or figuratively)

ט֑וֹב

H2896

good

good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good

וְנֶ֖פֶשׁ

H5315

but the soul

properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment

בֹּגְדִ֣ים

H898

of the transgressors

to cover (with a garment); figuratively, to act covertly; by implication, to pillage

חָמָֽס׃

H2555

shall eat violence

violence; by implication, wrong; by metonymy unjust gain

Analysis

Within the broader context of Proverbs, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Proverbs.

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 divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
How does this verse's literary context within Proverbs chapter 13 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?

Related Resources

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Topics

Wisdom