Proverbs 27:11

Authorized King James Version

My son, be wise, and make my heart glad, that I may answer him that reproacheth me.

Word-by-Word Analysis

חֲכַ֣ם

H2449

be wise

to be wise (in mind, word or act)

בְּ֭נִי

H1121

My son

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

וְשַׂמַּ֣ח

H8056

blithe or gleeful

לִבִּ֑י

H3820

and make my heart

the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything

וְאָשִׁ֖יבָה

H7725

that I may answer

to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);

חֹרְפִ֣י

H2778

him that reproacheth

to pull off, i.e., (by implication) to expose (as by stripping); specifically, to betroth (as if a surrender); figuratively, to carp at, i.e., defame;

דָבָֽר׃

H1697

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

Analysis

Within the broader context of Proverbs, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Proverbs.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?

Related Resources

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Topics

Wisdom