Proverbs 17:2

Authorized King James Version

A wise servant shall have rule over a son that causeth shame, and shall have part of the inheritance among the brethren.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
עֶֽבֶד
servant
a servant
#2
מַשְׂכִּ֗יל
A wise
to be (causatively, make or act) circumspect and hence, intelligent
#3
יִ֭מְשֹׁל
shall have rule
to rule
#4
בְּבֵ֣ן
over a son
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#5
מֵבִ֑ישׁ
that causeth shame
properly, to pale, i.e., by implication to be ashamed; also (by implication) to be disappointed or delayed
#6
וּבְת֥וֹךְ
among
a bisection, i.e., (by implication) the center
#7
אַ֝חִ֗ים
the brethren
a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])
#8
יַחֲלֹ֥ק
and shall have part
to be smooth (figuratively)
#9
נַחֲלָֽה׃
of the inheritance
properly, something inherited, i.e., (abstractly) occupancy, or (concretely) an heirloom; generally an estate, patrimony or portion

Analysis

The kingdom of God theme here intersects with the progressive revelation of God's rule from creation to consummation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of development from creation mandate through Davidic kingdom to eschatological fulfillment. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's reign from creation through the millennial kingdom.

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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