Proverbs 25:16

Authorized King James Version

Hast thou found honey? eat so much as is sufficient for thee, lest thou be filled therewith, and vomit it.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
דְּבַ֣שׁ
honey
honey (from its stickiness); by analogy, syrup
#2
מָ֭צָאתָ
Hast thou found
properly, to come forth to, i.e., appear or exist; transitively, to attain, i.e., find or acquire; figuratively, to occur, meet or be present
#3
אֱכֹ֣ל
eat
to eat (literally or figuratively)
#4
דַּיֶּ֑ךָּ
so much as is sufficient
enough (as noun or adverb), used chiefly with preposition in phrases
#5
פֶּן
properly, removal; used only (in the construction) adverb as conjunction, lest
#6
תִּ֝שְׂבָּעֶ֗נּוּ
for thee lest thou be filled
to sate, i.e., fill to satisfaction (literally or figuratively)
#7
וַהֲקֵֽאתֽוֹ׃
therewith and vomit
to vomit

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Proverbs. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, 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 revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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