Proverbs 24:1

Authorized King James Version

Be not thou envious against evil men, neither desire to be with them.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#2
תְּ֭קַנֵּא
Be not thou envious
to be (causatively, make) zealous, i.e., (in a bad sense) jealous or envious
#3
בְּאַנְשֵׁ֣י
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)
#4
רָעָ֑ה
against evil
bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)
#5
וְאַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#6
תִּ֝תְאָ֗ו
neither desire
to wish for
#7
לִהְי֥וֹת
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#8
אִתָּֽם׃
properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc

Analysis

Within the broader context of Proverbs, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by introducing key themes that will be developed throughout Proverbs.

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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