Proverbs 17:22

Authorized King James Version

A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לֵ֣ב
heart
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
#2
שָׂ֭מֵחַ
A merry
blithe or gleeful
#3
יֵיטִ֣יב
doeth good
to be (causative) make well, literally (sound, beautiful) or figuratively (happy, successful, right)
#4
גֵּהָ֑ה
like a medicine
a cure
#5
וְר֥וּחַ
spirit
wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the
#6
נְ֝כֵאָ֗ה
but a broken
smitten, i.e., (figuratively) afflicted
#7
תְּיַבֶּשׁ
drieth
to be ashamed, confused or disappointed; also (as failing) to dry up (as water) or wither (as herbage)
#8
גָּֽרֶם׃
the bones
a bone (as the skeleton of the body); hence, self, i.e., (figuratively) very

Analysis

Within the broader context of Proverbs, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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 building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Proverbs.

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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