Proverbs 17:11

Authorized King James Version

An evil man seeketh only rebellion: therefore a cruel messenger shall be sent against him.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַךְ
a particle of affirmation, surely; hence (by limitation) only
#2
מְרִ֥י
only rebellion
bitterness, i.e., (figuratively) rebellion; concretely, bitter, or rebellious
#3
יְבַקֶּשׁ
man seeketh
to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after
#4
רָ֑ע
An evil
bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)
#5
וּמַלְאָ֥ךְ
messenger
a messenger; specifically, of god, i.e., an angel (also a prophet, priest or teacher)
#6
אַ֝כְזָרִ֗י
therefore a cruel
terrible
#7
יְשֻׁלַּח
shall be sent
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)
#8
בּֽוֹ׃
H0

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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