Proverbs 30:18

Authorized King James Version

There be three things which are too wonderful for me, yea, four which I know not:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
שְׁלֹשָׁ֣ה
There be three
three; occasionally (ordinal) third, or (multiple) thrice
#2
הֵ֭מָּה
they (only used when emphatic)
#3
נִפְלְא֣וּ
things which are too wonderful
properly, perhaps to separate, i.e., distinguish (literally or figuratively); by implication, to be (causatively, make) great, difficult, wonderful
#4
מִמֶּ֑נִּי
properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses
#5
וְ֝אַרְבָּעָ֗
for me yea four
four
#6
לֹ֣א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#7
יְדַעְתִּֽים׃
which I know
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o

Analysis

Within the broader context of Proverbs, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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

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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