Proverbs 28:26

Authorized King James Version

He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בּוֹטֵ֣חַ
He that trusteth
properly, to hie for refuge (but not so precipitately as h2620); figuratively, to trust, be confident or sure
#2
בְּ֭לִבּוֹ
in his own heart
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
#3
ה֣וּא
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
#4
כְסִ֑יל
is a fool
properly, fat, i.e., (figuratively) stupid or silly
#5
וְהוֹלֵ֥ךְ
but whoso walketh
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#6
בְּ֝חָכְמָ֗ה
wisely
wisdom (in a good sense)
#7
ה֣וּא
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
#8
יִמָּלֵֽט׃
he shall be delivered
properly, to be smooth, i.e., (by implication) to escape (as if by slipperiness); causatively, to release or rescue; specifically, to bring forth youn

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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