Proverbs 31:5

Authorized King James Version

Lest they drink, and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted.

Word-by-Word Analysis

פֶּן

H6435

properly, removal; used only (in the construction) adverb as conjunction, lest

יִ֭שְׁתֶּה

H8354

Lest they drink

to imbibe (literally or figuratively)

וְיִשְׁכַּ֣ח

H7911

and forget

to mislay, i.e., to be oblivious of, from want of memory or attention

מְחֻקָּ֑ק

H2710

the law

properly, to hack, i.e., engrave (judges 5:14, to be a scribe simply); by implication, to enact (laws being cut in stone or metal tablets in primitive

וִֽ֝ישַׁנֶּה

H8138

and pervert

to fold, i.e., duplicate (literally or figuratively); by implication, to transmute (transitive or intransitive)

דִּ֣ין

H1779

the judgment

judgement (the suit, justice, sentence or tribunal); by implication also strife

כָּל

H3605

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

בְּנֵי

H1121

of any of the afflicted

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

עֹֽנִי׃

H6040

depression, i.e., misery

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

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
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?

Related Resources

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Topics

Wisdom