Proverbs 8:12

Authorized King James Version

I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אֲֽנִי
i
#2
חָ֭כְמָה
I wisdom
wisdom (in a good sense)
#3
שָׁכַ֣נְתִּי
dwell
to reside or permanently stay (literally or figuratively)
#4
עָרְמָ֑ה
with prudence
trickery; or (in a good sense) discretion
#5
וְדַ֖עַת
knowledge
knowledge
#6
מְזִמּ֣וֹת
of witty inventions
a plan, usually evil (machination), sometimes good (sagacity)
#7
אֶמְצָֽא׃
and find out
properly, to come forth to, i.e., appear or exist; transitively, to attain, i.e., find or acquire; figuratively, to occur, meet or be present

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Proverbs. The concept of wisdom 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 wisdom. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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