Proverbs 26:18

Authorized King James Version

As a mad man who casteth firebrands, arrows, and death,

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כְּֽ֭מִתְלַהְלֵהַּ
As a mad
to be rabid (figuratively, insane); also (from the exhaustion of frenzy) to languish
#2
הַיֹּרֶ֥ה
man who casteth
properly, to flow as water (i.e., to rain); transitively, to lay or throw (especially an arrow, i.e., to shoot); figuratively, to point out (as if by
#3
זִקִּ֗ים
firebrands
properly, what leaps forth, i.e., flash of fire, or a burning arrow; also (from the original sense of the root) a bond
#4
חִצִּ֥ים
arrows
properly, a piercer, i.e., an arrow; by implication, a wound; figuratively, (of god) thunder-bolt; the shaft of a spear
#5
וָמָֽוֶת׃
and death
death (natural or violent); concretely, the dead, their place or state (hades); figuratively, pestilence, ruin

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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