Proverbs 25:12

Authorized King James Version

As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover upon an obedient ear.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
נֶ֣זֶם
As an earring
a nose-ring
#2
זָ֭הָב
of gold
gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
#3
וַחֲלִי
and an ornament
a trinket (as polished)
#4
כָ֑תֶם
of fine gold
properly, something carved out, i.e., ore; hence, gold (pure as originally mined)
#5
מוֹכִ֥יחַ
reprover
to be right (i.e., correct); reciprocal, to argue; causatively, to decide, justify or convict
#6
חָ֝כָ֗ם
so is a wise
wise, (i.e., intelligent, skilful or artful)
#7
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#8
אֹ֥זֶן
ear
broadness. i.e., (concrete) the ear (from its form in man)
#9
שֹׁמָֽעַת׃
upon an obedient
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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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