Proverbs 3:7

Authorized King James Version

Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#2
תְּהִ֣י
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#3
חָכָ֣ם
Be not wise
wise, (i.e., intelligent, skilful or artful)
#4
בְּעֵינֶ֑יךָ
in thine own eyes
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
#5
יְרָ֥א
fear
to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten
#6
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#7
יְ֝הוָ֗ה
the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#8
וְס֣וּר
and depart
to turn off (literally or figuratively)
#9
מֵרָֽע׃
from evil
bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Proverbs, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Proverbs.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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