Proverbs 23:19

Authorized King James Version

Hear thou, my son, and be wise, and guide thine heart in the way.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
שְׁמַע
Hear
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
#2
אַתָּ֣ה
thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you
#3
בְנִ֣י
thou my son
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#4
וַחֲכָ֑ם
and be wise
to be wise (in mind, word or act)
#5
וְאַשֵּׁ֖ר
and guide
to be straight (used in the widest sense, especially to be level, right, happy); figuratively, to go forward, be honest, prosper
#6
בַּדֶּ֣רֶךְ
in the way
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
#7
לִבֶּֽךָ׃
thine heart
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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