Proverbs 20:16

Authorized King James Version

Take his garment that is surety for a stranger: and take a pledge of him for a strange woman.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לְֽקַח

H3947

Take

to take (in the widest variety of applications)

בִּ֭גְדוֹ

H899

his garment

a covering, i.e., clothing

כִּי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

עָ֣רַב

H6148

that is surety

to braid, i.e., intermix; technically, to traffic (as if by barter); also or give to be security (as a kind of exchange)

זָ֑ר

H2114

for a stranger

to turn aside (especially for lodging); hence to be a foreigner, strange, profane; specifically (active participle) to commit adultery

וּבְעַ֖ד

H1157

in up to or over against; generally at, beside, among, behind, for, etc

נָכְרִיָּ֣ם

H5237

of him for a strange woman

strange, in a variety of degrees and applications (foreign, non-relative, adulterous, different, wonderful)

חַבְלֵֽהוּ׃

H2254

and take a pledge

to wind tightly (as a rope), i.e., to bind; specifically, by a pledge; figuratively, to pervert, destroy; also to writhe in pain (especially of partur

Analysis

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about covenant?
What practical applications emerge from understanding covenant as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?
How does this verse's literary context within Proverbs chapter 20 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

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Topics

Wisdom