Proverbs 17:1

Authorized King James Version

Better is a dry morsel, and quietness therewith, than an house full of sacrifices with strife.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ט֤וֹב
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
פַּ֣ת
morsel
a bit
#3
חֲ֭רֵבָה
is a dry
parched or ruined
#4
וְשַׁלְוָה
and quietness
security (genuine or false)
#5
בָ֑הּ
H0
#6
מִ֝בַּ֗יִת
therewith than an house
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
#7
מָלֵ֥א
full
full (literally or figuratively) or filling (literally); also (concretely) fulness; adverbially, fully
#8
זִבְחֵי
of sacrifices
properly, a slaughter, i.e., the flesh of an animal; by implication, a sacrifice (the victim or the act)
#9
רִֽיב׃
with strife
a contest (personal or legal)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Proverbs, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by introducing key themes that will be developed throughout Proverbs.

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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