Proverbs 15:11

Authorized King James Version

Hell and destruction are before the LORD: how much more then the hearts of the children of men?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
שְׁא֣וֹל
Hell
hades or the world of the dead (as if a subterranean retreat), including its accessories and inmates
#2
וַ֭אֲבַדּוֹן
H11
and destruction
abstract, a perishing; concrete, hades
#3
נֶ֣גֶד
a front, i.e., part opposite; specifically a counterpart, or mate; usually (adverbial, especially with preposition) over against or before
#4
יְהוָ֑ה
are before the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#5
אַ֝֗ף
meaning accession (used as an adverb or conjunction); also or yea; adversatively though
#6
כִּֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#7
לִבּ֥וֹת
how much more then the hearts
the heart
#8
בְּֽנֵי
of the children
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#9
אָדָֽם׃
of men
ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Proverbs. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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