Proverbs 26:4

Authorized King James Version

Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#2
תַּ֣עַן
Answer
properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,
#3
כְּ֭סִיל
not a fool
properly, fat, i.e., (figuratively) stupid or silly
#4
כְּאִוַּלְתּ֑וֹ
according to his folly
silliness
#5
פֶּֽן
properly, removal; used only (in the construction) adverb as conjunction, lest
#6
תִּשְׁוֶה
lest thou also be like
properly, to level, i.e., equalize; figuratively, to resemble; by implication, to adjust (i.e., counterbalance, be suitable, compose, place, yield, et
#7
לּ֥וֹ
H0
#8
גַם
properly, assemblage; used only adverbially also, even, yea, though; often repeated as correl. both...and
#9
אָֽתָּה׃
thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you

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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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