Proverbs 19:21

Authorized King James Version

There are many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
רַבּ֣וֹת
There are many
abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)
#2
מַחֲשָׁב֣וֹת
devices
a contrivance, i.e., (concretely) a texture, machine, or (abstractly) intention, plan (whether bad, a plot; or good, advice)
#3
בְּלֶב
heart
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
#4
אִ֑ישׁ
in 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)
#5
וַעֲצַ֥ת
nevertheless the counsel
advice; by implication, plan; also prudence
#6
יְ֝הוָ֗ה
of the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#7
הִ֣יא
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
#8
תָקֽוּם׃
that shall stand
to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Proverbs. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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