Proverbs 2:9

Authorized King James Version

Then shalt thou understand righteousness, and judgment, and equity; yea, every good path.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אָ֗ז
at that time or place; also as a conjunction, therefore
#2
תָּ֭בִין
Then shalt thou understand
to separate mentally (or distinguish), i.e., (generally) understand
#3
צֶ֣דֶק
righteousness
the right (natural, moral or legal); also (abstractly) equity or (figuratively) prosperity
#4
וּמִשְׁפָּ֑ט
and judgment
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind
#5
וּ֝מֵישָׁרִ֗ים
and equity
evenness, i.e., (figuratively) prosperity or concord; also straightness, i.e., (figuratively) rectitude (only in plural with singular sense; often adv
#6
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#7
מַעְגַּל
path
a track (literally or figuratively); also a rampart (as circular)
#8
טֽוֹב׃
yea every good
good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good

Analysis

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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