Proverbs 20:7

Authorized King James Version

The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מִתְהַלֵּ֣ךְ
man walketh
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#2
בְּתֻמּ֣וֹ
in his integrity
completeness; figuratively, prosperity; usually (morally) innocence
#3
צַדִּ֑יק
The just
just
#4
אַשְׁרֵ֖י
are blessed
happiness; only in masculine plural construction as interjection, how happy!
#5
בָנָ֣יו
his children
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#6
אַחֲרָֽיו׃
after
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)

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

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 divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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