Proverbs 18:20

Authorized King James Version

A man's belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מִפְּרִ֣י
with the fruit
fruit (literally or figuratively)
#2
פִי
of his mouth
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
#3
אִ֭ישׁ
A man's
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)
#4
יִשְׂבָּֽע׃
shall be satisfied
to sate, i.e., fill to satisfaction (literally or figuratively)
#5
בִּטְנ֑וֹ
belly
the belly, especially the womb; also the bosom or body of anything
#6
תְּבוּאַ֖ת
and with the increase
income, i.e., produce (literally or figuratively)
#7
שְׂפָתָ֣יו
of his lips
the lip (as a natural boundary); by implication, language; by analogy, a margin (of a vessel, water, cloth, etc.)
#8
יִשְׂבָּֽע׃
shall be satisfied
to sate, i.e., fill to satisfaction (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Proverbs. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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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