Proverbs 27:8

Authorized King James Version

As a bird that wandereth from her nest, so is a man that wandereth from his place.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כְּ֭צִפּוֹר
As a bird
a little bird (as hopping)
#2
נוֹדֵ֥ד
that wandereth
properly, to wave to and fro (rarely to flap up and down); figuratively, to rove, flee, or (causatively) to drive away
#3
מִן
properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses
#4
קִנָּ֑הּ
from her nest
a nest (as fixed), sometimes including the nestlings; figuratively, a chamber or dwelling
#5
כֵּֽן
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
#6
אִ֝֗ישׁ
so is a man
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
#7
נוֹדֵ֥ד
that wandereth
properly, to wave to and fro (rarely to flap up and down); figuratively, to rove, flee, or (causatively) to drive away
#8
מִמְּקוֹמֽוֹ׃
from his place
properly, a standing, i.e., a spot; but used widely of a locality (general or specific); also (figuratively) of a condition (of body or mind)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Proverbs. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

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