Proverbs 13:23

Authorized King James Version

Much food is in the tillage of the poor: but there is that is destroyed for want of judgment.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
רָב
Much
abundance (in any respect)
#2
אֹ֭כֶל
food
food
#3
נִ֣יר
is in the tillage
properly, plowing, i.e., (concretely) freshly plowed land
#4
רָאשִׁ֑ים
to be destitute
#5
וְיֵ֥שׁ
but there is
there is or are (or any other form of the verb to be, as may suit the connection)
#6
נִ֝סְפֶּ֗ה
that is destroyed
properly, to scrape (literally, to shave; but usually figuratively) together (i.e., to accumulate or increase) or away (i.e., to scatter, remove, or r
#7
בְּלֹ֣א
for want
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#8
מִשְׁפָּֽט׃
of judgment
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind

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 divine revelation 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

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