Proverbs 14:29

Authorized King James Version

He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: but he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אֶ֣רֶךְ
He that is slow
long
#2
אַ֭פַּיִם
to wrath
properly, the nose or nostril; hence, the face, and occasionally a person; also (from the rapid breathing in passion) ire
#3
רַב
is of great
abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)
#4
תְּבוּנָ֑ה
understanding
intelligence; by implication, an argument; by extension, caprice
#5
וּקְצַר
but he that is hasty
short (whether in size, number, life, strength or temper)
#6
ר֝֗וּחַ
of spirit
wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the
#7
מֵרִ֥ים
exalteth
to be high actively, to rise or raise (in various applications, literally or figuratively)
#8
אִוֶּֽלֶת׃
folly
silliness

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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