Proverbs 26:5

Authorized King James Version

Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
עֲנֵ֣ה
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,
#2
כְ֭סִיל
a fool
properly, fat, i.e., (figuratively) stupid or silly
#3
כְּאִוַּלְתּ֑וֹ
according to his folly
silliness
#4
פֶּן
properly, removal; used only (in the construction) adverb as conjunction, lest
#5
יִהְיֶ֖ה
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#6
חָכָ֣ם
lest he be wise
wise, (i.e., intelligent, skilful or artful)
#7
בְּעֵינָֽיו׃
in his own conceit
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)

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 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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