Proverbs 31:23

Authorized King James Version

Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
נוֹדָ֣ע
is known
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
#2
בַּשְּׁעָרִ֣ים
in the gates
an opening, i.e., door or gate
#3
בַּעְלָ֑הּ
Her husband
a master; hence, a husband, or (figuratively) owner (often used with another noun in modifications of this latter sense)
#4
בְּ֝שִׁבְתּ֗וֹ
when he sitteth
properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
#5
עִם
adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then
#6
זִקְנֵי
among the elders
old
#7
אָֽרֶץ׃
of the land
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

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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