Proverbs 5:13

Authorized King James Version

And have not obeyed the voice of my teachers, nor inclined mine ear to them that instructed me!

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְֽלֹא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

שָׁ֭מַעְתִּי

H8085

And have not obeyed

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

בְּק֣וֹל

H6963

the voice

a voice or sound

מוֹרָ֑י

H3384

of my teachers

properly, to flow as water (i.e., to rain); transitively, to lay or throw (especially an arrow, i.e., to shoot); figuratively, to point out (as if by

וְ֝לִֽמְלַמְּדַ֗י

H3925

to them that instructed

properly, to goad, i.e., (by implication) to teach (the rod being an middle eastern incentive)

לֹא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

הִטִּ֥יתִי

H5186

nor inclined

to stretch or spread out; by implication, to bend away (including moral deflection); used in a great variety of application (as follows)

אָזְנִֽי׃

H241

mine ear

broadness. i.e., (concrete) the ear (from its form in man)

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

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

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?

Related Resources

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Topics

Wisdom