Proverbs 6:28

Authorized King James Version

Can one go upon hot coals, and his feet not be burned?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אִם
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
#2
יְהַלֵּ֣ךְ
go
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#3
אִ֭ישׁ
Can one
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)
#4
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#5
הַגֶּחָלִ֑ים
upon hot coals
an ember
#6
וְ֝רַגְלָ֗יו
and his feet
a foot (as used in walking); by implication, a step; by euphemistically the pudenda
#7
לֹ֣א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#8
תִכָּוֶֽינָה׃
not be burned
properly, to prick or penetrate; hence, to blister (as smarting or eating into)

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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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