Proverbs 4:19

Authorized King James Version

The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
דֶּ֣רֶךְ
The way
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
#2
רְ֭שָׁעִים
of the wicked
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
#3
כָּֽאֲפֵלָ֑ה
is as darkness
duskiness, figuratively, misfortune; concrete, concealment
#4
לֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#5
יָ֝דְע֗וּ
they know
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
#6
בַּמֶּ֥ה
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
#7
יִכָּשֵֽׁלוּ׃
not at what they stumble
to totter or waver (through weakness of the legs, especially the ankle); by implication, to falter, stumble, faint or fall

Analysis

Within the broader context of Proverbs, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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 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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