Proverbs 27:22

Authorized King James Version

Though thou shouldest bray a fool in a mortar among wheat with a pestle, yet will not his foolishness depart from him.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אִ֥ם
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
#2
תִּכְתּֽוֹשׁ
Though thou shouldest bray
to butt or pound
#3
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
הָאֱוִ֨יל׀
a fool
(figuratively) silly
#5
בַּ֥מַּכְתֵּ֡שׁ
in a mortar
a mortar; by analogy, a socket (of a tooth)
#6
בְּת֣וֹךְ
among
a bisection, i.e., (by implication) the center
#7
הָ֭רִיפוֹת
wheat
(only plural), grits (as pounded)
#8
בַּֽעֱלִ֑י
with a pestle
a pestle (as lifted)
#9
לֹא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#10
תָס֥וּר
depart
to turn off (literally or figuratively)
#11
מֵ֝עָלָ֗יו
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#12
אִוַּלְתּֽוֹ׃
yet will not his foolishness
silliness

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

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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