Proverbs 25:24

Authorized King James Version

It is better to dwell in the corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman and in a wide house.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ט֗וֹב
It is better
good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good
#2
שֶׁ֥בֶת
to dwell
properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
#3
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#4
פִּנַּת
in the corner
an angle; by implication, a pinnacle; figuratively, a chieftain
#5
גָּ֑ג
of the housetop
a roof; by analogy, the top of an altar
#6
מֵאֵ֥שֶׁת
woman
a woman
#7
מִ֝דְוָנִ֗ים
a contest or quarrel
#8
וּבֵ֥ית
house
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
#9
חָֽבֶר׃
and in a wide
a society; also a spell

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

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 salvation 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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