Proverbs 6:26

Authorized King James Version

For by means of a whorish woman a man is brought to a piece of bread: and the adulteress will hunt for the precious life.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּ֤י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

בְעַד

H1157

For by means of

in up to or over against; generally at, beside, among, behind, for, etc

וְאֵ֥שֶׁת

H802

and the adulteress

a woman

זוֹנָ֗ה

H2181

a whorish

to commit adultery (usually of the female, and less often of simple fornication, rarely of involuntary ravishment); figuratively, to commit idolatry (

עַֽד

H5704

as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)

כִּכַּ֫ר

H3603

a man is brought to a piece

a circle, i.e., (by implication) a circumjacent tract or region, especially the ghor or valley of the jordan; also a (round) loaf; also a talent (or l

לָ֥חֶם

H3899

of bread

food (for man or beast), especially bread, or grain (for making it)

וְאֵ֥שֶׁת

H802

and the adulteress

a woman

אִ֑ישׁ

H376

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

#10

נֶ֖פֶשׁ

H5315

life

properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment

#11

יְקָרָ֣ה

H3368

for the precious

valuable (objectively or subjectively)

#12

תָצֽוּד׃

H6679

will hunt

to victual (for a journey)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Proverbs. The concept of life 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 life in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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?
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?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics

Wisdom