Proverbs 4:6

Authorized King James Version

Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: love her, and she shall keep thee.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#2
תַּעַזְבֶ֥הָ
Forsake
to loosen, i.e., relinquish, permit, etc
#3
וְתִשְׁמְרֶ֑ךָּ
her not and she shall preserve
properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
#4
אֱהָבֶ֥הָ
thee love
to have affection for (sexually or otherwise)
#5
וְתִצְּרֶֽךָּ׃
her and she shall keep
to guard, in a good sense (to protect, maintain, obey, etc.) or a bad one (to conceal, etc.)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Proverbs, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of love connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about love, 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 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 love in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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