Proverbs 16:19

Authorized King James Version

Better it is to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ט֣וֹב
Better
good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good
#2
שְׁפַל
it is to be of an humble
depressed, literally or figuratively
#3
ר֭וּחַ
spirit
wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the
#4
אֶת
properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc
#5
עֲנָיִ֑ים
with the lowly
depressed (figuratively), in mind (gentle) or circumstances (needy, especially saintly)
#6
מֵֽחַלֵּ֥ק
than to divide
to be smooth (figuratively)
#7
שָׁ֝לָ֗ל
the spoil
booty
#8
אֶת
properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc
#9
גֵּאִֽים׃
with the proud
lofty; figuratively, arrogant

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 revelation 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

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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