Proverbs 15:1

Authorized King James Version

A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מַֽעֲנֶה
answer
a reply (favorable or contradictory)
#2
רַּ֭ךְ
A soft
tender (literally or figuratively); by implication, weak
#3
יָשִׁ֣יב
turneth
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
#4
חֵמָ֑ה
away wrath
heat; figuratively, anger, poison (from its fever)
#5
וּדְבַר
words
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#6
עֶ֝֗צֶב
but grievous
an earthen vessel; usually (painful) toil; also a pang (whether of body or mind)
#7
יַעֲלֶה
stir up
to ascend, intransitively (be high) or actively (mount); used in a great variety of senses, primary and secondary, literal and figurative
#8
אָֽף׃
anger
properly, the nose or nostril; hence, the face, and occasionally a person; also (from the rapid breathing in passion) ire

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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