Proverbs 14:20

Authorized King James Version

The poor is hated even of his own neighbour: but the rich hath many friends.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
גַּם
properly, assemblage; used only adverbially also, even, yea, though; often repeated as correl. both...and
#2
לְ֭רֵעֵהוּ
even of his own neighbour
an associate (more or less close)
#3
יִשָּׂ֣נֵא
is hated
to hate (personally)
#4
רָ֑שׁ
The poor
to be destitute
#5
וְאֹהֲבֵ֖י
friends
to have affection for (sexually or otherwise)
#6
עָשִׁ֣יר
but the rich
rich, whether literal or figurative (noble)
#7
רַבִּֽים׃
hath many
abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)

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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