Proverbs 3:17

Authorized King James Version

Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
דַרְכֵי
Her ways
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
#2
דַרְכֵי
Her ways
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
#3
נֹ֑עַם
of pleasantness
agreeableness, i.e., delight, suitableness, splendor or grace
#4
וְֽכָל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#5
נְתִ֖יבוֹתֶ֣יהָ
and all her paths
a (beaten) track
#6
שָׁלֽוֹם׃
are peace
safe, i.e., (figuratively) well, happy, friendly; also (abstractly) welfare, i.e., health, prosperity, peace

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 peace 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

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 peace. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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