Proverbs 24:18

Authorized King James Version

Lest the LORD see it, and it displease him, and he turn away his wrath from him.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
פֶּן
properly, removal; used only (in the construction) adverb as conjunction, lest
#2
יִרְאֶ֣ה
see
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
#3
יְ֭הוָה
Lest the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#4
וְרַ֣ע
it and it displease
properly, to spoil (literally, by breaking to pieces); figuratively, to make (or be) good for nothing, i.e., bad (physically, socially or morally)
#5
בְּעֵינָ֑יו
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
#6
וְהֵשִׁ֖יב
him and he turn away
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
#7
מֵעָלָ֣יו
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#8
אַפּֽוֹ׃
his wrath
properly, the nose or nostril; hence, the face, and occasionally a person; also (from the rapid breathing in passion) ire

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Proverbs. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, 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 sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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