Proverbs 22:7

Authorized King James Version

The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
עָ֭שִׁיר
The rich
rich, whether literal or figurative (noble)
#2
בְּרָשִׁ֣ים
over the poor
to be destitute
#3
יִמְשׁ֑וֹל
ruleth
to rule
#4
וְעֶ֥בֶד
is servant
a servant
#5
מַלְוֶֽה׃
and the borrower
properly, to twine; also to borrow (as a form of obligation) or (causative) to lend
#6
לְאִ֣ישׁ
to the lender
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
#7
מַלְוֶֽה׃
and the borrower
properly, to twine; also to borrow (as a form of obligation) or (causative) to lend

Analysis

The kingdom of God theme here intersects with the progressive revelation of God's rule from creation to consummation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of development from creation mandate through Davidic kingdom to eschatological fulfillment. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's reign from creation through the millennial kingdom.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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