Proverbs 26:10

Authorized King James Version

The great God that formed all things both rewardeth the fool, and rewardeth transgressors.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
רַ֥ב
The great
abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)
#2
מְחֽוֹלֵֽל
God that formed
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
#3
כֹּ֑ל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#4
וְשֹׂכֵ֥ר
all things both rewardeth
to hire
#5
כְּ֝סִ֗יל
the fool
properly, fat, i.e., (figuratively) stupid or silly
#6
וְשֹׂכֵ֥ר
all things both rewardeth
to hire
#7
עֹבְרִֽים׃
transgressors
to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Proverbs. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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