Proverbs 20:30

Authorized King James Version

The blueness of a wound cleanseth away evil: so do stripes the inward parts of the belly.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
חַבֻּר֣וֹת
The blueness
properly, bound (with stripes), i.e., a weal (or black-and-blue mark itself)
#2
פֶּ֭צַע
of a wound
a wound
#3
תַּמְר֣יּק
cleanseth
properly, a scouring, i.e., soap or perfumery for the bath; figuratively, a detergent
#4
בְּרָ֑ע
away evil
bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)
#5
וּ֝מַכּ֗וֹת
so do stripes
a blow (in 2 chronicles 2:10, of the flail); by implication, a wound; figuratively, carnage, also pestilence
#6
חַדְרֵי
the inward parts
an apartment (usually literal)
#7
בָֽטֶן׃
of the belly
the belly, especially the womb; also the bosom or body of anything

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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