Proverbs 25:3

Authorized King James Version

The heaven for height, and the earth for depth, and the heart of kings is unsearchable.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
שָׁמַ֣יִם
The heaven
the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r
#2
לָ֭רוּם
for height
(literally) elevation or (figuratively) elation
#3
וָאָ֣רֶץ
and the earth
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#4
לָעֹ֑מֶק
for depth
depth
#5
וְלֵ֥ב
and the heart
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
#6
מְ֝לָכִ֗ים
of kings
a king
#7
אֵ֣ין
a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle
#8
חֵֽקֶר׃
is unsearchable
examination, enumeration, deliberation

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 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

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