Proverbs 6:30

Authorized King James Version

Men do not despise a thief, if he steal to satisfy his soul when he is hungry;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לֹא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#2
יָב֣וּזוּ
Men do not despise
to disrespect
#3
לַ֭גַּנָּב
a thief
a stealer
#4
כִּ֣י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#5
יִגְנ֑וֹב
if he steal
to thieve (literally or figuratively); by implication, to deceive
#6
לְמַלֵּ֥א
to satisfy
to fill or (intransitively) be full of, in a wide application (literally and figuratively)
#7
נַ֝פְשׁ֗וֹ
his soul
properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
#8
כִּ֣י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#9
יִרְעָֽב׃
when he is hungry
to hunger

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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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