Proverbs 3:31

Authorized King James Version

Envy thou not the oppressor, and choose none of his ways.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#2
תְּ֭קַנֵּא
Envy
to be (causatively, make) zealous, i.e., (in a bad sense) jealous or envious
#3
בְּאִ֣ישׁ
thou not the oppressor
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
#4
חָמָ֑ס
violence; by implication, wrong; by metonymy unjust gain
#5
וְאַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#6
תִּ֝בְחַ֗ר
and choose
properly, to try, i.e., (by implication) select
#7
בְּכָל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#8
דְּרָכָֽיו׃
none of his ways
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb

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 divine revelation 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 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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