Proverbs 4:16

For they sleep not, except they have done mischief; and their sleep is taken away, unless they cause some to fall.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּ֤י

H3588

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

לֹ֣א

H3808

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

יִֽ֭שְׁנוּ

H3462

For they sleep

properly, to be slack or languid, i.e., (by implication) sleep (figuratively, to die); also to grow old, stale or inveterate

אִם

H518

used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not

לֹ֣א

H3808

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

יָרֵ֑עוּ

H7489

not except they have done mischief

properly, to spoil (literally, by breaking to pieces); figuratively, to make (or be) good for nothing, i.e., bad (physically, socially or morally)

וְֽנִגְזְלָ֥ה

H1497

is taken away

to pluck off; specifically to flay, strip or rob

שְׁ֝נָתָ֗ם

H8142

and their sleep

sleep

אִם

H518

used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not

#10

לֹ֥א

H3808

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

#11

יַכְשִֽׁולוּ׃

H3782

unless they cause some to fall

to totter or waver (through weakness of the legs, especially the ankle); by implication, to falter, stumble, faint or fall

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

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

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?
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?
How does this verse's literary context within Proverbs chapter 4 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

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Topics

Wisdom