Proverbs 17:4

Authorized King James Version

A wicked doer giveth heed to false lips; and a liar giveth ear to a naughty tongue.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מֵ֭רַע
A wicked doer
properly, to spoil (literally, by breaking to pieces); figuratively, to make (or be) good for nothing, i.e., bad (physically, socially or morally)
#2
מַקְשִׁ֣יב
giveth heed
to prick up the ears, i.e., hearken
#3
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#4
שְׂפַת
lips
the lip (as a natural boundary); by implication, language; by analogy, a margin (of a vessel, water, cloth, etc.)
#5
אָ֑וֶן
to false
strictly nothingness; also trouble, vanity, wickedness; specifically an idol
#6
שֶׁ֥קֶר
and a liar
an untruth; by implication, a sham (often adverbial)
#7
מֵ֝זִין
giveth ear
to broaden out the ear (with the hand), i.e., (by implication) to listen
#8
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#9
לְשׁ֥וֹן
tongue
the tongue (of man or animals), used literally (as the instrument of licking, eating, or speech), and figuratively (speech, an ingot, a fork of flame,
#10
הַוֹּֽת׃
to a naughty
by implication, of falling); desire; also ruin

Analysis

Within the broader context of Proverbs, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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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