Proverbs 15:14

The heart of him that hath understanding seeketh knowledge: but the mouth of fools feedeth on foolishness.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לֵ֣ב

H3820

The heart

the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything

נָ֭בוֹן

H995

of him that hath understanding

to separate mentally (or distinguish), i.e., (generally) understand

יְבַקֶּשׁ

H1245

seeketh

to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after

דָּ֑עַת

H1847

knowledge

וּפִ֥ני

H6310

but the mouth

the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos

כְ֝סִילִ֗ים

H3684

of fools

properly, fat, i.e., (figuratively) stupid or silly

יִרְעֶ֥ה

H7462

feedeth

to tend a flock; i.e., pasture it; intransitively, to graze (literally or figuratively); generally to rule; by extension, to associate with (as a frie

אִוֶּֽלֶת׃

H200

on foolishness

silliness

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
How does this verse's literary context within Proverbs chapter 15 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

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Topics

Wisdom