Proverbs 23:20

Authorized King James Version

Be not among winebibbers; among riotous eaters of flesh:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#2
תְּהִ֥י
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#3
בְסֹֽבְאֵי
to quaff to satiety, i.e., become tipsy
#4
יָ֑יִן
Be not among winebibbers
wine (as fermented); by implication, intoxication
#5
בְּזֹלֲלֵ֖י
among riotous eaters
figuratively, to be loose morally, worthless or prodigal
#6
בָשָׂ֣ר
of flesh
flesh (from its freshness); by extension, body, person; also (by euphemistically) the pudenda of a man
#7
לָֽמוֹ׃
H0

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

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