Proverbs 5:8

Authorized King James Version

Remove thy way far from her, and come not nigh the door of her house:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הַרְחֵ֣ק
Remove
to widen (in any direction), i.e., (intransitively) recede or (transitively) remove (literally or figuratively, of place or relation)
#2
מֵעָלֶ֣יהָ
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#3
דַרְכֶּ֑ךָ
thy way
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
#4
וְאַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#5
תִּ֝קְרַ֗ב
from her and come not nigh
to approach (causatively, bring near) for whatever purpose
#6
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#7
פֶּ֥תַח
the door
an opening (literally), i.e., door (gate) or entrance way
#8
בֵּיתָֽהּ׃
of her house
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)

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

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