Proverbs 27:20

Authorized King James Version

Hell and destruction are never full; so the eyes of man are never satisfied.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
שְׁא֣וֹל
Hell
hades or the world of the dead (as if a subterranean retreat), including its accessories and inmates
#2
וַ֭אֲבַדֹּה
H10
a perishing
#3
לֹ֣א
are never
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#4
תִשְׂבַּֽעְנָה׃
are never satisfied
to sate, i.e., fill to satisfaction (literally or figuratively)
#5
וְעֵינֵ֥י
so the eyes
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
#6
הָ֝אָדָ֗ם
of man
ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)
#7
לֹ֣א
are never
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#8
תִשְׂבַּֽעְנָה׃
are never satisfied
to sate, i.e., fill to satisfaction (literally or figuratively)

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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