Proverbs 15:7

Authorized King James Version

The lips of the wise disperse knowledge: but the heart of the foolish doeth not so.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
שִׂפְתֵ֣י
The lips
the lip (as a natural boundary); by implication, language; by analogy, a margin (of a vessel, water, cloth, etc.)
#2
חֲ֭כָמִים
of the wise
wise, (i.e., intelligent, skilful or artful)
#3
יְזָ֣רוּ
disperse
to toss about; by implication, to diffuse, winnow
#4
דָ֑עַת
knowledge
knowledge
#5
וְלֵ֖ב
but the heart
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
#6
כְּסִילִ֣ים
of the foolish
properly, fat, i.e., (figuratively) stupid or silly
#7
לֹא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#8
כֵֽן׃
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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