Proverbs 29:10

Authorized King James Version

The bloodthirsty hate the upright: but the just seek his soul.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַנְשֵׁ֣י
The bloodthirsty
properly, a mortal (and thus differing from the more dignified h0120); hence, a man in general (singly or collectively)
#2
דָ֭מִים
blood (as that which when shed causes death) of man or an animal; by analogy, the juice of the grape; figuratively (especially in the plural) bloodshe
#3
יִשְׂנְאוּ
hate
to hate (personally)
#4
תָ֑ם
the upright
complete; usually (morally) pious; specifically, gentle, dear
#5
וִֽ֝ישָׁרִ֗ים
but the just
straight (literally or figuratively)
#6
יְבַקְשׁ֥וּ
seek
to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after
#7
נַפְשֽׁוֹ׃
his soul
properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment

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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