Proverbs 23:7

Authorized King James Version

For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כִּ֤י׀
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
כְּמ֥וֹ
as, thus, so
#3
שָׁעַ֥ר
For as he thinketh
to act as gatekeeper; (figuratively) to estimate
#4
בְּנַפְשׁ֗וֹ
in his heart
properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
#5
כֶּ֫ן
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
#6
ה֥וּא
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
#7
אֱכ֣וֹל
so is he Eat
to eat (literally or figuratively)
#8
וּ֭שְׁתֵה
and drink
to imbibe (literally or figuratively)
#9
יֹ֣אמַר
saith
to say (used with great latitude)
#10
לָ֑ךְ
H0
#11
וְ֝לִבּ֗וֹ
he to thee but his heart
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
#12
בַּל
properly, a failure; by implication nothing; usually (adverb) not at all; also lest
#13
עִמָּֽךְ׃
adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then

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 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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