Proverbs 2:10

Authorized King James Version

When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כִּֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
תָב֣וֹא
entereth
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#3
חָכְמָ֣ה
When wisdom
wisdom (in a good sense)
#4
בְלִבֶּ֑ךָ
into thine heart
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
#5
וְ֝דַ֗עַת
and knowledge
knowledge
#6
לְֽנַפְשְׁךָ֥
unto 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
#7
יִנְעָֽם׃
is pleasant
to be agreeable (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Proverbs. The concept of wisdom 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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