Proverbs 24:16

Authorized King James Version

For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief.

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
שֶׁ֨בַע׀
seven times
seven (as the sacred full one); also (adverbially) seven times; by implication, a week; by extension, an indefinite number
#3
יִפּ֣וֹל
man falleth
to fall, in a great variety of applications (intransitive or causative, literal or figurative)
#4
צַדִּ֣יק
For a just
just
#5
וָקָ֑ם
and riseth up again
to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)
#6
וּ֝רְשָׁעִ֗ים
but the wicked
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
#7
יִכָּשְׁל֥וּ
shall fall
to totter or waver (through weakness of the legs, especially the ankle); by implication, to falter, stumble, faint or fall
#8
בְרָעָֽה׃
into mischief
bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Proverbs, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. 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 building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 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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