Proverbs 7:23

Authorized King James Version

Till a dart strike through his liver; as a bird hasteth to the snare, and knoweth not that it is for his life.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
עַ֤ד
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
#2
יְפַלַּ֪ח
strike
to slice, i.e., break open or pierce
#3
חֵ֡ץ
Till a dart
properly, a piercer, i.e., an arrow; by implication, a wound; figuratively, (of god) thunder-bolt; the shaft of a spear
#4
כְּֽבֵד֗וֹ
through his liver
the liver (as the heaviest of the viscera)
#5
כְּמַהֵ֣ר
hasteth
properly, to be liquid or flow easily, i.e., (by implication)
#6
צִפּ֣וֹר
as a bird
a little bird (as hopping)
#7
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#8
פָּ֑ח
to the snare
a (metallic) sheet (as pounded thin)
#9
וְלֹֽא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#10
יָ֝דַ֗ע
and knoweth
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
#11
כִּֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#12
בְנַפְשׁ֥וֹ
not that it is for his life
properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
#13
הֽוּא׃
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

Analysis

Within the broader context of Proverbs, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of life connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about life, 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 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 life. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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