Proverbs 15:29

Authorized King James Version

The LORD is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
רָח֣וֹק
is far
remote, literally or figuratively, of place or time; specifically, precious; often used adverbially (with preposition)
#2
יְ֭הוָה
The LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#3
מֵרְשָׁעִ֑ים
from the wicked
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
#4
וּתְפִלַּ֖ת
the prayer
intercession, supplication; by implication, a hymn
#5
צַדִּיקִ֣ים
of the righteous
just
#6
יִשְׁמָֽע׃
but he heareth
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

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 sovereignty 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

Related Resources

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

Topics