Proverbs 22:9

He that hath a bountiful eye shall be blessed; for he giveth of his bread to the poor.

Word-by-Word Analysis

טֽוֹב

H2896

He that hath a bountiful

good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good

עַ֭יִן

H5869

eye

an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)

ה֣וּא

H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

יְבֹרָ֑ךְ

H1288

shall be blessed

to kneel; by implication to bless god (as an act of adoration), and (vice-versa) man (as a benefit); also (by euphemism) to curse (god or the king, as

כִּֽי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

נָתַ֖ן

H5414

for he giveth

to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)

מִלַּחְמ֣וֹ

H3899

of his bread

food (for man or beast), especially bread, or grain (for making it)

לַדָּֽל׃

H1800

to the poor

properly, dangling, i.e., (by implication) weak or thin

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

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?

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Topics

Wisdom