Proverbs 20:22

Authorized King James Version

Say not thou, I will recompense evil; but wait on the LORD, and he shall save thee.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#2
תֹּאמַ֥ר
Say
to say (used with great latitude)
#3
אֲשַׁלְּמָה
not thou I will recompense
to be safe (in mind, body or estate); figuratively, to be (causatively, make) completed; by implication, to be friendly; by extension, to reciprocate
#4
רָ֑ע
evil
bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)
#5
קַוֵּ֥ה
but wait on
to bind together (perhaps by twisting), i.e., collect; (figuratively) to expect
#6
לַֽ֝יהוָ֗ה
the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#7
וְיֹ֣שַֽׁע
and he shall save
properly, to be open, wide or free, i.e., (by implication) to be safe; causatively, to free or succor
#8
לָֽךְ׃
H0

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Proverbs. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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