Proverbs 17:27

Authorized King James Version

He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
חוֹשֵׂ֣ךְ
spareth
to restrain or (reflexive) refrain; by implication, to refuse, spare, preserve; to observe
#2
אֲ֭מָרָיו
his words
something said
#3
יוֹדֵ֣עַ
He that hath
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
#4
דָּ֑עַת
knowledge
knowledge
#5
וְקַר
cool; figuratively, quiet
#6
ר֝וּחַ
rohagah, an israelite
#7
אִ֣ישׁ
and a man
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
#8
תְּבוּנָֽה׃
of understanding
intelligence; by implication, an argument; by extension, caprice

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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