Proverbs 28:20

Authorized King James Version

A faithful man shall abound with blessings: but he that maketh haste to be rich shall not be innocent.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אִ֣ישׁ
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)
#2
אֱ֭מוּנוֹת
A faithful
literally firmness; figuratively security; morally fidelity
#3
רַב
shall abound
abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)
#4
בְּרָכ֑וֹת
with blessings
benediction; by implication prosperity
#5
וְאָ֥ץ
but he that maketh haste
to press; (by implication) to be close, hurry, withdraw
#6
לְ֝הַעֲשִׁ֗יר
to be rich
properly, to accumulate; chiefly (specifically) to grow (causatively, make) rich
#7
לֹ֣א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#8
יִנָּקֶֽה׃
shall not be innocent
to be (or make) clean (literally or figuratively); by implication (in an adverse sense) to be bare, i.e., extirpated

Analysis

The covenant theme here intersects with God's relationship with His people from Abraham through the new covenant. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of evolution from creation covenant through Abrahamic, Mosaic, Davidic, to new covenant. The phrase emphasizing faith central to epistemology and the means by which humans receive divine revelation and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's relational commitment from Noah to the new covenant.

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 faith. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics