Proverbs 18:13

Authorized King James Version

He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מֵשִׁ֣יב
He that answereth
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
#2
דָּ֭בָר
a matter
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#3
בְּטֶ֣רֶם
properly, non-occurrence; used adverbially, not yet or before
#4
יִשְׁמָ֑ע
before he heareth
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
#5
אִוֶּ֥לֶת
it it is folly
silliness
#6
הִיא
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
#7
ל֝֗וֹ
H0
#8
וּכְלִמָּֽה׃
and shame
disgrace

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

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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