Proverbs 28:23

Authorized King James Version

He that rebuketh a man afterwards shall find more favour than he that flattereth with the tongue.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מ֘וֹכִ֤יחַ
He that rebuketh
to be right (i.e., correct); reciprocal, to argue; causatively, to decide, justify or convict
#2
אָדָ֣ם
a man
ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)
#3
אַ֭חֲרַי
afterwards
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
#4
חֵ֣ן
more favour
graciousness, i.e., subjective (kindness, favor) or objective (beauty)
#5
יִמְצָ֑א
shall find
properly, to come forth to, i.e., appear or exist; transitively, to attain, i.e., find or acquire; figuratively, to occur, meet or be present
#6
מִֽמַּחֲלִ֥יק
than he that flattereth
to be smooth (figuratively)
#7
לָשֽׁוֹן׃
with the tongue
the tongue (of man or animals), used literally (as the instrument of licking, eating, or speech), and figuratively (speech, an ingot, a fork of flame,

Analysis

Within the broader context of Proverbs, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. 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 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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