Proverbs 14:22

Authorized King James Version

Do they not err that devise evil? but mercy and truth shall be to them that devise good.

Word-by-Word Analysis

הֲֽלוֹא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יִ֭תְעוּ

H8582

Do they not err

to vacillate, i.e., reel or stray (literally or figuratively); also causative of both

חֹ֣רְשֵׁי

H2790

shall be to them that devise

to scratch, i.e., (by implication) to engrave, plough; hence (from the use of tools) to fabricate (of any material); figuratively, to devise (in a bad

רָ֑ע

H7451

evil

bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)

וְחֶ֥סֶד

H2617

but mercy

kindness; by implication (towards god) piety; rarely (by opposition) reproof, or (subject.) beauty

וֶ֝אֱמֶ֗ת

H571

and truth

stability; (figuratively) certainty, truth, trustworthiness

חֹ֣רְשֵׁי

H2790

shall be to them that devise

to scratch, i.e., (by implication) to engrave, plough; hence (from the use of tools) to fabricate (of any material); figuratively, to devise (in a bad

טֽוֹב׃

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

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Proverbs. The concept of truth 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 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 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 truth in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding truth in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
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?

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Topics

Wisdom