Proverbs 29:23

Authorized King James Version

A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
גַּאֲוַ֣ת
pride
arrogance or majesty; by implication, (concretely) ornament
#2
אָ֭דָם
A man's
ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)
#3
תַּשְׁפִּילֶ֑נּוּ
shall bring him low
to depress or sink (especially figuratively, to humiliate, intransitive or transitive)
#4
וּשְׁפַל
the humble
depressed, literally or figuratively
#5
ר֝֗וּחַ
in spirit
wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the
#6
יִתְמֹ֥ךְ
shall uphold
to sustain; by implication, to obtain, keep fast; figuratively, to help, follow close
#7
כָּבֽוֹד׃
but honour
properly, weight, but only figuratively in a good sense, splendor or copiousness

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 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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