Proverbs 21:4

Authorized King James Version

An high look, and a proud heart, and the plowing of the wicked, is sin.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
רוּם
An high
(literally) elevation or (figuratively) elation
#2
עֵ֭ינַיִם
look
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
#3
וּרְחַב
and a proud
roomy, in any (or every) direction, literally or figuratively
#4
לֵ֑ב
heart
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
#5
נִ֖ר
and the plowing
properly, plowing, i.e., (concretely) freshly plowed land
#6
רְשָׁעִ֣ים
of the wicked
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
#7
חַטָּֽאת׃
is sin
an offence (sometimes habitual sinfulness), and its penalty, occasion, sacrifice, or expiation; also (concretely) an offender

Analysis

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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