Proverbs 29:18

Authorized King James Version

Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בְּאֵ֣ין
a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle
#2
חָ֭זוֹן
Where there is no vision
a sight (mentally), i.e., a dream, revelation, or oracle
#3
יִפָּ֣רַֽע
perish
to loosen; by implication, to expose, dismiss; figuratively, absolve, begin
#4
עָ֑ם
the people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#5
וְשֹׁמֵ֖ר
but he that keepeth
properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
#6
תּוֹרָ֣ה
the law
a precept or statute, especially the decalogue or pentateuch
#7
אַשְׁרֵֽהוּ׃
happy
happiness; only in masculine plural construction as interjection, how happy!

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Proverbs. The concept of covenant community 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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