Proverbs 25:13

Authorized King James Version

As the cold of snow in the time of harvest, so is a faithful messenger to them that send him: for he refresheth the soul of his masters.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כְּצִנַּת
As the cold
a (large) shield (as if guarding by prickliness)
#2
שֶׁ֨לֶג׀
of snow
snow (probably from its whiteness)
#3
בְּי֬וֹם
in the time
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
#4
קָצִ֗יר
of harvest
severed, a limb (of a tree, or simply foliage)
#5
צִ֣יר
messenger
a throe (as a phys. or mental pressure)
#6
נֶ֭אֱמָן
so is a faithful
properly, to build up or support; to foster as a parent or nurse; figuratively to render (or be) firm or faithful, to trust or believe, to be permanen
#7
לְשֹׁלְחָ֑יו
to them that send
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)
#8
וְנֶ֖פֶשׁ
the soul
properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
#9
אֲדֹנָ֣יו
of his masters
sovereign, i.e., controller (human or divine)
#10
יָשִֽׁיב׃
him for he refresheth
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);

Analysis

Within the broader context of Proverbs, this passage highlights covenant through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of faith connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about faith, 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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on covenant particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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