Proverbs 13:24

Authorized King James Version

He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
חוֹשֵׂ֣ךְ
He that spareth
to restrain or (reflexive) refrain; by implication, to refuse, spare, preserve; to observe
#2
שִׁ֭בְטוֹ
his rod
a scion, i.e., (literally) a stick (for punishing, writing, fighting, ruling, walking, etc.) or (figuratively) a clan
#3
שׂוֹנֵ֣א
hateth
to hate (personally)
#4
בְנ֑וֹ
his son
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#5
וְ֝אֹהֲב֗וֹ
but he that loveth
to have affection for (sexually or otherwise)
#6
שִֽׁחֲר֥וֹ
him betimes
properly, to dawn, i.e., (figuratively) be (up) early at any task (with the implication of earnestness); by extension, to search for (with painstaking
#7
מוּסָֽר׃
him chasteneth
properly, chastisement; figuratively, reproof, warning or instruction; also restraint

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Proverbs. The concept of love reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The emotional and relational language employed here is characteristic of biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, emphasizing the personal nature of divine-human relationship. The original language emphasizes agape in Greek contexts or hesed in Hebrew, indicating covenantal loyalty, 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 love. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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