Proverbs 31:21

Authorized King James Version

She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לֹא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

תִירָ֣א

H3372

She is not afraid

to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten

בֵּ֝יתָ֗הּ

H1004

for all her household

a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)

מִשָּׁ֑לֶג

H7950

of the snow

snow (probably from its whiteness)

כִּ֥י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

כָל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

בֵּ֝יתָ֗הּ

H1004

for all her household

a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)

לָבֻ֥שׁ

H3847

are clothed

properly, wrap around, i.e., (by implication) to put on a garment or clothe (oneself, or another), literally or figuratively

שָׁנִֽים׃

H8144

with scarlet

crimson, properly, the insect or its color, also stuff dyed with it

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Proverbs. The concept of divine revelation 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?

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Topics

Wisdom