Proverbs 3:21

Authorized King James Version

My son, let not them depart from thine eyes: keep sound wisdom and discretion:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בְּ֭נִי
My son
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#2
אַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#3
יָלֻ֣זוּ
let not them depart
to turn aside , i.e., (literally) to depart, (figuratively) be perverse
#4
מֵעֵינֶ֑יךָ
from thine eyes
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
#5
נְצֹ֥ר
keep
to guard, in a good sense (to protect, maintain, obey, etc.) or a bad one (to conceal, etc.)
#6
תֻּ֝שִׁיָּ֗ה
sound wisdom
support or (by implication) ability, i.e., (direct) help, (in purpose) an undertaking, (intellectual) understanding
#7
וּמְזִמָּֽה׃
and discretion
a plan, usually evil (machination), sometimes good (sagacity)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Proverbs. The concept of wisdom 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 wisdom. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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