Proverbs 5:18

Authorized King James Version

Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth.

Word-by-Word Analysis

יְהִֽי

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

מְקוֹרְךָ֥

H4726

Let thy fountain

properly, something dug, i.e., a (general) source (of water, even when naturally flowing; also of tears, blood (by euphemism, of the female pudenda);

בָר֑וּךְ

H1288

be blessed

to kneel; by implication to bless god (as an act of adoration), and (vice-versa) man (as a benefit); also (by euphemism) to curse (god or the king, as

וּ֝שְׂמַ֗ח

H8055

and rejoice

probably to brighten up, i.e., (figuratively) be (causatively, make) blithe or gleesome

מֵאֵ֥שֶׁת

H802

with the wife

a woman

נְעוּרֶֽךָ׃

H5271

of thy youth

(only in plural collective or emphatic form) youth, the state (juvenility) or the persons (young people)

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

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 understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How does this verse's literary context within Proverbs chapter 5 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

Related Resources

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Topics

Wisdom