Proverbs 16:2

Authorized King James Version

All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weigheth the spirits.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כָּֽל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

דַּרְכֵי

H1870

All the ways

a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb

אִ֭ישׁ

H376

of a man

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

זַ֣ךְ

H2134

are clean

clear

בְּעֵינָ֑יו

H5869

in his own eyes

an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)

וְתֹכֵ֖ן

H8505

weigheth

to balance, i.e., measure out (by weight or dimension); figuratively to arrange, equalize, through the idea of levelling (ment, estimate, test)

רוּח֣וֹת

H7307

the spirits

wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the

יְהוָֽה׃

H3068

but the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

Analysis

Within the broader context of Proverbs, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Proverbs Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?

Related Resources

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Topics

Wisdom