Proverbs 25:23

The north wind driveth away rain: so doth an angry countenance a backbiting tongue.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ר֣וּחַ

H7307

wind

wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the

צָ֭פוֹן

H6828

The north

properly, hidden, i.e., dark; used only of the north as a quarter (gloomy and unknown)

תְּח֣וֹלֵֽל

H2342

driveth away

properly, to twist or whirl (in a circular or spiral manner), i.e., (specifically) to dance, to writhe in pain (especially of parturition) or fear; fi

גָּ֑שֶׁם

H1653

rain

a shower

וּפָנִ֥ים

H6440

countenance

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

נִ֝זְעָמִ֗ים

H2194

so doth an angry

properly, to foam at the mouth, i.e., to be enraged

לְשׁ֣וֹן

H3956

tongue

the tongue (of man or animals), used literally (as the instrument of licking, eating, or speech), and figuratively (speech, an ingot, a fork of flame,

סָֽתֶר׃

H5643

a backbiting

a cover (in a good or a bad, a literal or a figurative sense)

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 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

How does this verse's literary context within Proverbs chapter 25 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?

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Topics

Wisdom