Proverbs 16:11

Authorized King James Version

A just weight and balance are the LORD'S: all the weights of the bag are his work.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
פֶּ֤לֶס׀
weight
a balance
#2
וּמֹאזְנֵ֣י
and balance
(only in the dual) a pair of scales
#3
מִ֭שְׁפָּט
A just
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind
#4
לַֽיהוָ֑ה
are the LORD'S
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#5
מַ֝עֲשֵׂ֗הוּ
are his work
an action (good or bad); generally, a transaction; abstractly, activity; by implication, a product (specifically, a poem) or (generally) property
#6
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#7
אַבְנֵי
H68
all the weights
a stone
#8
כִֽיס׃
of the bag
a cup; also a bag for money or weights

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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