Proverbs 30:23

Authorized King James Version

For an odious woman when she is married; and an handmaid that is heir to her mistress.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
תַּ֣חַת
the bottom (as depressed); only adverbially, below (often with prepositional prefix underneath), in lieu of, etc
#2
שְׂ֭נוּאָה
For an odious
to hate (personally)
#3
כִּ֣י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#4
תִבָּעֵ֑ל
woman when she is married
to be master; hence, to marry
#5
וְ֝שִׁפְחָ֗ה
and an handmaid
a female slave (as a member of the household)
#6
כִּֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#7
תִירַ֥שׁ
that is heir
to occupy (by driving out previous tenants, and possessing in their place); by implication, to seize, to rob, to inherit; also to expel, to impoverish
#8
גְּבִרְתָּֽהּ׃
to her mistress
mistress

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

Questions for Reflection

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