Proverbs 16:23

Authorized King James Version

The heart of the wise teacheth his mouth, and addeth learning to his lips.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לֵ֣ב
The heart
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
#2
חָ֭כָם
of the wise
wise, (i.e., intelligent, skilful or artful)
#3
יַשְׂכִּ֣יל
teacheth
to be (causatively, make or act) circumspect and hence, intelligent
#4
פִּ֑יהוּ
his mouth
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
#5
וְעַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#6
שְׂ֝פָתָ֗יו
to his lips
the lip (as a natural boundary); by implication, language; by analogy, a margin (of a vessel, water, cloth, etc.)
#7
יֹסִ֥יף
and addeth
to add or augment (often adverbial, to continue to do a thing)
#8
לֶֽקַח׃
learning
properly, something received, i.e., (mentally) instruction (whether on the part of the teacher or hearer); also (in an active and sinister sense) inve

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Proverbs. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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