Proverbs 18:1

Authorized King James Version

Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לְֽ֭תַאֲוָה
Through desire
a longing; by implication, a delight (subjectively, satisfaction, objectively, a charm)
#2
יְבַקֵּ֣שׁ
himself seeketh
to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after
#3
נִפְרָ֑ד
a man having separated
to break through, i.e., spread or separate (oneself)
#4
בְּכָל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#5
תּ֝וּשִׁיָּ֗ה
with all wisdom
support or (by implication) ability, i.e., (direct) help, (in purpose) an undertaking, (intellectual) understanding
#6
יִתְגַּלָּֽע׃
and intermeddleth
to be obstinate

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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