Proverbs 25:26
A righteous man falling down before the wicked is as a troubled fountain, and a corrupt spring.
Original Language Analysis
מַעְיָ֣ן
fountain
H4599
מַעְיָ֣ן
fountain
Strong's:
H4599
Word #:
1 of 8
a fountain (also collectively), figuratively, a source (of satisfaction)
וּמָק֣וֹר
spring
H4726
וּמָק֣וֹר
spring
Strong's:
H4726
Word #:
3 of 8
properly, something dug, i.e., a (general) source (of water, even when naturally flowing; also of tears, blood (by euphemism, of the female pudenda);
מָשְׁחָ֑ת
and a corrupt
H7843
מָשְׁחָ֑ת
and a corrupt
Strong's:
H7843
Word #:
4 of 8
to decay, i.e., (causatively) ruin (literally or figuratively)
Historical Context
Ancient communication was slow - travelers brought letters, messengers carried news. Months might pass without word from distant family. Good news brought deep relief after long anxiety. New Testament letters functioned this way - Paul's epistles brought spiritual refreshment to churches. Third John 4 expresses this: 'I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.' Modern instant communication shouldn't diminish appreciation for encouraging news.
Questions for Reflection
- Who in your life would be refreshed by good news or encouraging communication from you?
- How can you make your communication 'cold water' - genuinely refreshing - rather than mere formality?
- What good news could you share that would refresh someone's soul?
Analysis & Commentary
As cold water to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far country. The Hebrew 'mayim qar' (cold water) and 'shemuw`ah towb' (good news/report) creates beautiful imagery. Cold water to the thirsty brings intense refreshment and relief. Similarly, good news from distant loved ones refreshes the soul. This verse celebrates communication's power to comfort and encourage. In ancient world without rapid communication, news from distant family/friends was precious. Letters refreshed recipients profoundly.