Proverbs 26:11

Authorized King James Version

As a dog returneth to his vomit, so a fool returneth to his folly.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כְּ֭כֶלֶב
As a dog
a dog; hence (by euphemism) a male prostitute
#2
שָׁ֣ב
returneth
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
#3
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#4
קֵא֑וֹ
to his vomit
vomit
#5
כְּ֝סִ֗יל
so a fool
properly, fat, i.e., (figuratively) stupid or silly
#6
שׁוֹנֶ֥ה
returneth
to fold, i.e., duplicate (literally or figuratively); by implication, to transmute (transitive or intransitive)
#7
בְאִוַּלְתּֽוֹ׃
to his folly
silliness

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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