Proverbs 7:22

Authorized King James Version

He goeth after her straightway, as an ox goeth to the slaughter, or as a fool to the correction of the stocks;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ה֤וֹלֵ֥ךְ
He goeth
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#2
אַחֲרֶ֗יהָ
after
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
#3
פִּ֫תְאֹ֥ם
her straightway
instantly
#4
כְּ֭שׁוֹר
as an ox
a bullock (as a traveller)
#5
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#6
טָ֣בַח
to the slaughter
properly, something slaughtered; hence, a beast (or meat, as butchered); abstractly butchery (or concretely, a place of slaughter)
#7
יָבֹ֑א
goeth
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#8
וּ֝כְעֶ֗כֶס
of the stocks
a fetter; hence, an anklet
#9
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#10
מוּסַ֥ר
to the correction
properly, chastisement; figuratively, reproof, warning or instruction; also restraint
#11
אֱוִֽיל׃
or as a fool
(figuratively) silly

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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