Proverbs 17:18

Authorized King James Version

A man void of understanding striketh hands, and becometh surety in the presence of his friend.

Word-by-Word Analysis

אָדָ֣ם

H120

A man

ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)

חֲסַר

H2638

void

lacking; hence, without

לֵ֭ב

H3820

of understanding

the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything

תּוֹקֵ֣עַ

H8628

striketh

to clatter, i.e., slap (the hands together), clang (an instrument); by analogy, to drive (a nail or tent-pin, a dart, etc.); by implication, to become

כָּ֑ף

H3709

hands

the hollow hand or palm (so of the paw of an animal, of the sole, and even of the bowl of a dish or sling, the handle of a bolt, the leaves of a palm-

עֹרֵ֥ב

H6148

and becometh

to braid, i.e., intermix; technically, to traffic (as if by barter); also or give to be security (as a kind of exchange)

עֲ֝רֻבָּ֗ה

H6161

surety

something given as security, i.e., (literally) a token (of safety) or (metaphorically) a bondsman

לִפְנֵ֥י

H6440

in the presence

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

רֵעֵֽהוּ׃

H7453

of his friend

an associate (more or less close)

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 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

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
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?
How does this verse's literary context within Proverbs chapter 17 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

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Topics

Wisdom