Proverbs 27:16

Authorized King James Version

Whosoever hideth her hideth the wind, and the ointment of his right hand, which bewrayeth itself.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
צָֽפַן
Whosoever hideth
to hide (by covering over); by implication, to hoard or reserve; figuratively to deny; specifically (favorably) to protect, (unfavorably) to lurk
#2
צָֽפַן
Whosoever hideth
to hide (by covering over); by implication, to hoard or reserve; figuratively to deny; specifically (favorably) to protect, (unfavorably) to lurk
#3
ר֑וּחַ
the wind
wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the
#4
וְשֶׁ֖מֶן
and the ointment
grease, especially liquid (as from the olive, often perfumed); figuratively, richness
#5
יְמִינ֣וֹ
of his right hand
the right hand or side (leg, eye) of a person or other object (as the stronger and more dexterous); locally, the south
#6
יִקְרָֽא׃
which bewrayeth
to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)

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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