Proverbs 2:8

Authorized King James Version

He keepeth the paths of judgment, and preserveth the way of his saints.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לִ֭נְצֹר
He keepeth
to guard, in a good sense (to protect, maintain, obey, etc.) or a bad one (to conceal, etc.)
#2
אָרְח֣וֹת
the paths
a well-trodden road (literally or figuratively); also a caravan
#3
מִשְׁפָּ֑ט
of judgment
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind
#4
וְדֶ֖רֶךְ
the way
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
#5
חֲסִידָ֣ו
of his saints
properly, kind, i.e., (religiously) pious (a saint)
#6
יִשְׁמֹֽר׃
and preserveth
properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Proverbs. The concept of divine revelation 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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