Proverbs 4:21

Authorized King James Version

Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#2
יַלִּ֥יזוּ
Let them not depart
to turn aside , i.e., (literally) to depart, (figuratively) be perverse
#3
מֵעֵינֶ֑יךָ
from thine eyes
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
#4
שָׁ֝מְרֵ֗ם
keep
properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
#5
בְּת֣וֹךְ
them in the midst
a bisection, i.e., (by implication) the center
#6
לְבָבֶֽךָ׃
of thine heart
the heart (as the most interior organ)

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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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