Proverbs 31:8

Authorized King James Version

Open thy mouth for the dumb in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
פְּתַח
Open
to open wide (literally or figuratively); specifically, to loosen, begin, plough, carve
#2
פִּ֥יךָ
thy mouth
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
#3
לְאִלֵּ֑ם
for the dumb
speechless
#4
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#5
דִּ֝֗ין
in the cause
judgement (the suit, justice, sentence or tribunal); by implication also strife
#6
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#7
בְּנֵ֥י
of all such as are appointed
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#8
חֲלֽוֹף׃
to destruction
properly, surviving; by implication (collectively) orphans

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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