Proverbs 16:15

Authorized King James Version

In the light of the king's countenance is life; and his favour is as a cloud of the latter rain.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בְּאוֹר
In the light
illumination or (concrete) luminary (in every sense, including lightning, happiness, etc.)
#2
פְּנֵי
countenance
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
#3
מֶ֥לֶךְ
of the king's
a king
#4
חַיִּ֑ים
is life
alive; hence, raw (flesh); fresh (plant, water, year), strong; also (as noun, especially in the feminine singular and masculine plural) life (or livin
#5
וּ֝רְצוֹנ֗וֹ
and his favour
delight (especially as shown)
#6
כְּעָ֣ב
is as a cloud
properly, an envelope, i.e., darkness (or density, 2 chronicles 4:17); specifically, a (scud) cloud; also a copse
#7
מַלְקֽוֹשׁ׃
of the latter rain
the spring rain; figuratively, eloquence

Analysis

Within the broader context of Proverbs, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of life connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about life, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Proverbs.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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