Proverbs 15:8

Authorized King James Version

The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD: but the prayer of the upright is his delight.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
זֶ֣בַח
The sacrifice
properly, a slaughter, i.e., the flesh of an animal; by implication, a sacrifice (the victim or the act)
#2
רְ֭שָׁעִים
of the wicked
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
#3
תּוֹעֲבַ֣ת
is an abomination
properly, something disgusting (morally), i.e., (as noun) an abhorrence; especially idolatry or (concretely) an idol
#4
יְהוָ֑ה
to the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#5
וּתְפִלַּ֖ת
but the prayer
intercession, supplication; by implication, a hymn
#6
יְשָׁרִ֣ים
of the upright
straight (literally or figuratively)
#7
רְצוֹנֽוֹ׃
is his delight
delight (especially as shown)

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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