Proverbs 19:16

Authorized King James Version

He that keepeth the commandment keepeth his own soul; but he that despiseth his ways shall die.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
שֹׁמֵ֣ר
He that keepeth
properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
#2
מִ֭צְוָה
the commandment
a command, whether human or divine (collectively, the law)
#3
שֹׁמֵ֣ר
He that keepeth
properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
#4
נַפְשׁ֑וֹ
his own soul
properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
#5
בּוֹזֵ֖ה
but he that despiseth
to disesteem
#6
דְרָכָ֣יו
his ways
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
#7
יָוֽמּת׃
shall die
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill

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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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