Proverbs 6:22

Authorized King James Version

When thou goest, it shall lead thee; when thou sleepest, it shall keep thee; and when thou awakest, it shall talk with thee.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בְּהִתְהַלֶּכְךָ֙׀
When thou goest
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#2
תַּנְחֶ֬ה
it shall lead
to guide; by implication, to transport (into exile, or as colonists)
#3
אֹתָ֗ךְ
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
בְּֽ֭שָׁכְבְּךָ
thee when thou sleepest
to lie down (for rest, sexual connection, decease or any other purpose)
#5
תִּשְׁמֹ֣ר
it shall keep
properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
#6
עָלֶ֑יךָ
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#7
וַ֝הֲקִיצ֗וֹתָ
thee and when thou awakest
to awake (literally or figuratively)
#8
הִ֣יא
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
#9
תְשִׂיחֶֽךָ׃
it shall talk
to ponder, i.e., (by implication) converse (with oneself, and hence, aloud) or (transitively) utter

Analysis

Within the broader context of Proverbs, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. 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

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