Proverbs 14:30

Authorized King James Version

A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
חַיֵּ֣י
is the life
alive; hence, raw (flesh); fresh (plant, water, year), strong; also (as noun, especially in the feminine singular and masculine plural) life (or livin
#2
בְ֭שָׂרִים
of the flesh
flesh (from its freshness); by extension, body, person; also (by euphemistically) the pudenda of a man
#3
לֵ֣ב
heart
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
#4
מַרְפֵּ֑א
A sound
properly, curative, i.e., literally (concretely) a medicine, or (abstractly) a cure; figuratively (concretely) deliverance, or (abstractly) placidity
#5
וּרְקַ֖ב
the rottenness
decay (by caries)
#6
עֲצָמ֣וֹת
of the bones
a bone (as strong); by extension, the body; figuratively, the substance, i.e., (as pron.) selfsame
#7
קִנְאָֽה׃
but envy
jealousy or envy

Analysis

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

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics