Proverbs 21:5

Authorized King James Version

The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness; but of every one that is hasty only to want.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מַחְשְׁב֣וֹת
The thoughts
a contrivance, i.e., (concretely) a texture, machine, or (abstractly) intention, plan (whether bad, a plot; or good, advice)
#2
חָ֭רוּץ
of the diligent
properly, incised or (active) incisive; hence (as noun masculine or feminine) a trench (as dug), gold (as mined), a threshing-sledge (having sharp tee
#3
אַךְ
a particle of affirmation, surely; hence (by limitation) only
#4
לְמוֹתָ֑ר
tend only to plenteousness
literally gain; figuratively, superiority
#5
וְכָל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#6
אָ֝֗ץ
but of every one that is hasty
to press; (by implication) to be close, hurry, withdraw
#7
אַךְ
a particle of affirmation, surely; hence (by limitation) only
#8
לְמַחְסֽוֹר׃
only to want
deficiency; hence, impoverishment

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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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