Proverbs 4:9

Authorized King James Version

She shall give to thine head an ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
תִּתֵּ֣ן
She shall give
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#2
לְ֭רֹאשְׁךָ
to thine head
the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)
#3
לִוְיַת
an ornament
something attached, i.e., a wreath
#4
חֵ֑ן
of grace
graciousness, i.e., subjective (kindness, favor) or objective (beauty)
#5
עֲטֶ֖רֶת
a crown
a crown
#6
תִּפְאֶ֣רֶת
of glory
ornament (abstractly or concretely, literally or figuratively)
#7
תְּמַגְּנֶֽךָּ׃
shall she deliver
properly, to shield; encompass with; figuratively, to rescue, to hand safely over (i.e., surrender)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Proverbs. The concept of grace reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The emotional and relational language employed here is characteristic of biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, emphasizing the personal nature of divine-human relationship. The original language emphasizes charis in Greek or hen in Hebrew, emphasizing unmerited divine favor, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 grace. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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