Proverbs 19:18

Authorized King James Version

Chasten thy son while there is hope, and let not thy soul spare for his crying.

Word-by-Word Analysis

יַסֵּ֣ר

H3256

Chasten

to chastise, literally (with blows) or figuratively (with words); hence, to instruct

בִּ֭נְךָ

H1121

thy son

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

כִּי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

יֵ֣שׁ

H3426

while there is

there is or are (or any other form of the verb to be, as may suit the connection)

תִּקְוָ֑ה

H8615

hope

literally a cord (as an attachment); figuratively, expectancy

וְאֶל

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

הֲ֝מִית֗וֹ

H4191

for his crying

to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill

אַל

H408

not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing

תִּשָּׂ֥א

H5375

spare

to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative

#10

נַפְשֶֽׁךָ׃

H5315

and let not thy soul

properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Proverbs. The concept of hope 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 hope in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
How does this verse's literary context within Proverbs chapter 19 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
In what ways does understanding hope in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?

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Topics

Wisdom