Proverbs 25:18

Authorized King James Version

A man that beareth false witness against his neighbour is a maul, and a sword, and a sharp arrow.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מֵפִ֣יץ
is a maul
a breaker, i.e., mallet
#2
וְ֭חֶרֶב
and a sword
drought; also a cutting instrument (from its destructive effect), as a knife, sword, or other sharp implement
#3
וְחֵ֣ץ
arrow
properly, a piercer, i.e., an arrow; by implication, a wound; figuratively, (of god) thunder-bolt; the shaft of a spear
#4
שָׁנ֑וּן
and a sharp
to point (transitive or intransitive); intensively, to pierce; figuratively, to inculcate
#5
אִ֥ישׁ
A man
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
#6
עֹנֶ֥ה
that beareth
properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,
#7
בְ֝רֵעֵ֗הוּ
against his neighbour
an associate (more or less close)
#8
עֵ֣ד
witness
concretely, a witness; abstractly, testimony; specifically, a recorder, i.e., prince
#9
שָֽׁקֶר׃
false
an untruth; by implication, a sham (often adverbial)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Proverbs, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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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