Proverbs 21:12

Authorized King James Version

The righteous man wisely considereth the house of the wicked: but God overthroweth the wicked for their wickedness.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מַשְׂכִּ֣יל
man wisely considereth
to be (causatively, make or act) circumspect and hence, intelligent
#2
צַ֭דִּיק
The righteous
just
#3
לְבֵ֣ית
the house
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
#4
רְשָׁעִ֣ים
of the wicked
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
#5
מְסַלֵּ֖ף
but God overthroweth
properly, to wrench, i.e., (figuratively) to subvert
#6
רְשָׁעִ֣ים
of the wicked
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
#7
לָרָֽע׃
for their wickedness
bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Proverbs, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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