Proverbs 28:5

Authorized King James Version

Evil men understand not judgment: but they that seek the LORD understand all things.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַנְשֵׁי
men
properly, a mortal (and thus differing from the more dignified h0120); hence, a man in general (singly or collectively)
#2
רָ֭ע
Evil
bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)
#3
לֹא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#4
יָבִ֥ינוּ
understand
to separate mentally (or distinguish), i.e., (generally) understand
#5
מִשְׁפָּ֑ט
not judgment
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind
#6
וּמְבַקְשֵׁ֥י
but they that seek
to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after
#7
יְ֝הוָ֗ה
the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#8
יָבִ֥ינוּ
understand
to separate mentally (or distinguish), i.e., (generally) understand
#9
כֹֽל׃
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine sovereignty contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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