Proverbs 26:1

Authorized King James Version

As snow in summer, and as rain in harvest, so honour is not seemly for a fool.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כַּשֶּׁ֤לֶג׀
As snow
snow (probably from its whiteness)
#2
בַּקַּ֗יִץ
in summer
harvest (as the crop), whether the product (grain or fruit) or the (dry) season
#3
וְכַמָּטָ֥ר
and as rain
rain
#4
בַּקָּצִ֑יר
in harvest
severed, a limb (of a tree, or simply foliage)
#5
כֵּ֤ן
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
#6
לֹא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#7
נָאוֶ֖ה
is not seemly
suitable, or beautiful
#8
לִכְסִ֣יל
for a fool
properly, fat, i.e., (figuratively) stupid or silly
#9
כָּבֽוֹד׃
so honour
properly, weight, but only figuratively in a good sense, splendor or copiousness

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

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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