Proverbs 19:28

Authorized King James Version

An ungodly witness scorneth judgment: and the mouth of the wicked devoureth iniquity.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
עֵ֣ד
witness
concretely, a witness; abstractly, testimony; specifically, a recorder, i.e., prince
#2
בְּ֭לִיַּעַל
An ungodly
without profit, worthlessness; by extension, destruction, wickedness
#3
יָלִ֣יץ
scorneth
properly, to make mouths at, i.e., to scoff; hence (from the effort to pronounce a foreign language) to interpret, or (generally) intercede
#4
מִשְׁפָּ֑ט
judgment
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind
#5
וּפִ֥י
and the mouth
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
#6
רְ֝שָׁעִ֗ים
of the wicked
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
#7
יְבַלַּע
devoureth
to make away with (specifically by swallowing); generally, to destroy
#8
אָֽוֶן׃
iniquity
strictly nothingness; also trouble, vanity, wickedness; specifically an idol

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 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 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 sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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