Proverbs 5:10

Authorized King James Version

Lest strangers be filled with thy wealth; and thy labours be in the house of a stranger;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
פֶּֽן
properly, removal; used only (in the construction) adverb as conjunction, lest
#2
יִשְׂבְּע֣וּ
be filled
to sate, i.e., fill to satisfaction (literally or figuratively)
#3
זָרִ֣ים
Lest strangers
to turn aside (especially for lodging); hence to be a foreigner, strange, profane; specifically (active participle) to commit adultery
#4
כֹּחֶ֑ךָ
with thy wealth
vigor, literally (force, in a good or a bad sense) or figuratively (capacity, means, produce)
#5
וַ֝עֲצָבֶ֗יךָ
and thy labours
an earthen vessel; usually (painful) toil; also a pang (whether of body or mind)
#6
בְּבֵ֣ית
be in the house
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
#7
נָכְרִֽי׃
of a stranger
strange, in a variety of degrees and applications (foreign, non-relative, adulterous, different, wonderful)

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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