Proverbs 17:14

Authorized King James Version

The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
פּ֣וֹטֵֽר
is as when one letteth out
to cleave or burst through, i.e., (causatively) to emit, whether literal or figurative (gape)
#2
מַ֭יִם
water
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen
#3
רֵאשִׁ֣ית
The beginning
the first, in place, time, order or rank (specifically, a firstfruit)
#4
מָד֑וֹן
of strife
a contest or quarrel
#5
וְלִפְנֵ֥י
before
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
#6
הִ֝תְגַּלַּ֗ע
it be meddled
to be obstinate
#7
הָרִ֥יב
contention
a contest (personal or legal)
#8
נְטֽוֹשׁ׃
therefore leave off
properly, to pound, i.e., smite; by implication (as if beating out, and thus expanding) to disperse; also, to thrust off, down, out or upon (inclusive

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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