Proverbs 14:5

Authorized King James Version

A faithful witness will not lie: but a false witness will utter lies.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
עֵ֣ד
witness
concretely, a witness; abstractly, testimony; specifically, a recorder, i.e., prince
#2
אֱ֭מוּנִים
A faithful
established, i.e., (figuratively) trusty; also (abstractly) trustworthiness
#3
לֹ֣א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#4
יְכַזֵּ֑ב
lies
to lie (i.e., deceive), literally or figuratively
#5
וְיָפִ֥יחַ
will utter
to puff, i.e., blow with the breath or air; hence, to fan (as a breeze), to utter, to kindle (a fire), to scoff
#6
כְּ֝זָבִ֗ים
will not lie
falsehood; literally (untruth) or figuratively (idol)
#7
עֵ֣ד
witness
concretely, a witness; abstractly, testimony; specifically, a recorder, i.e., prince
#8
שָֽׁקֶר׃
but a false
an untruth; by implication, a sham (often adverbial)

Analysis

The covenant theme here intersects with God's relationship with His people from Abraham through the new covenant. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of evolution from creation covenant through Abrahamic, Mosaic, Davidic, to new covenant. The phrase emphasizing faith central to epistemology and the means by which humans receive divine revelation and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's relational commitment from Noah to the new covenant.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

Related Resources

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

Topics