Proverbs 24:17

Authorized King James Version

Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בִּנְפֹ֣ל
falleth
to fall, in a great variety of applications (intransitive or causative, literal or figurative)
#2
אֽ֭וֹיִבְיךָ
not when thine enemy
hating; an adversary
#3
אַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#4
תִּשְׂמָ֑ח
Rejoice
probably to brighten up, i.e., (figuratively) be (causatively, make) blithe or gleesome
#5
וּ֝בִכָּשְׁל֗וֹ
when he stumbleth
to totter or waver (through weakness of the legs, especially the ankle); by implication, to falter, stumble, faint or fall
#6
אַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#7
יָגֵ֥ל
be glad
properly, to spin round (under the influence of any violent emotion), i.e., usually rejoice, or (as cringing) fear
#8
לִבֶּֽךָ׃
and let not 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

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 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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