Proverbs 4:20

Authorized King James Version

My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בְּ֭נִי
My son
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#2
לִדְבָרַ֣י
to my words
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#3
הַקְשִׁ֑יבָה
attend
to prick up the ears, i.e., hearken
#4
לַ֝אֲמָרַ֗י
unto my sayings
something said
#5
הַט
incline
to stretch or spread out; by implication, to bend away (including moral deflection); used in a great variety of application (as follows)
#6
אָזְנֶֽךָ׃
thine ear
broadness. i.e., (concrete) the ear (from its form in man)

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

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