Proverbs 26:15

Authorized King James Version

The slothful hideth his hand in his bosom; it grieveth him to bring it again to his mouth.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
טָ֘מַ֤ן
hideth
to hide (by covering over)
#2
עָצֵ֣ל
The slothful
indolent
#3
יָ֭דוֹ
his hand
a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v
#4
בַּצַּלָּ֑חַת
in his bosom
something advanced or deep, i.e., a bowl; figuratively, the bosom
#5
נִ֝לְאָ֗ה
it grieveth
to tire; (figuratively) to be (or make) disgusted
#6
לַֽהֲשִׁיבָ֥הּ
him to bring it again
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
#7
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#8
פִּֽיו׃
to his mouth
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos

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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