Proverbs 20:13

Authorized King James Version

Love not sleep, lest thou come to poverty; open thine eyes, and thou shalt be satisfied with bread.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#2
תֶּֽאֱהַ֣ב
Love
to have affection for (sexually or otherwise)
#3
שֵׁ֭נָה
not sleep
sleep
#4
פֶּן
properly, removal; used only (in the construction) adverb as conjunction, lest
#5
תִּוָּרֵ֑שׁ
lest thou come to poverty
to occupy (by driving out previous tenants, and possessing in their place); by implication, to seize, to rob, to inherit; also to expel, to impoverish
#6
פְּקַ֖ח
open
to open (the senses, especially the eyes); figuratively, to be observant
#7
עֵינֶ֣יךָ
thine eyes
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
#8
שְֽׂבַֽע
and thou shalt be satisfied
to sate, i.e., fill to satisfaction (literally or figuratively)
#9
לָֽחֶם׃
with bread
food (for man or beast), especially bread, or grain (for making it)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Proverbs, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of love connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about love, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Proverbs.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Proverbs Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes love in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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