Proverbs 28:1

Authorized King James Version

The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
נָ֣סוּ
flee
to flit, i.e., vanish away (subside, escape; causatively, chase, impel, deliver)
#2
וְאֵין
a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle
#3
רֹדֵ֣ף
when no man pursueth
to run after (usually with hostile intent; figuratively [of time] gone by)
#4
רָשָׁ֑ע
The wicked
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
#5
וְ֝צַדִּיקִ֗ים
but the righteous
just
#6
כִּכְפִ֥יר
as a lion
a village (as covered in by walls); also a young lion (perhaps as covered with a mane)
#7
יִבְטָֽח׃
are bold
properly, to hie for refuge (but not so precipitately as h2620); figuratively, to trust, be confident or sure

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

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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