Proverbs 8:16

Authorized King James Version

By me princes rule, and nobles, even all the judges of the earth.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בִּ֭י
H0
#2
שָׂרִ֣ים
By me princes
a head person (of any rank or class)
#3
יָשֹׂ֑רוּ
rule
to have (transitively, exercise; reflexively, get) dominion
#4
וּ֝נְדִיבִ֗ים
and nobles
properly, voluntary, i.e., generous; hence, magnanimous; as noun, a grandee (sometimes a tyrant)
#5
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#6
שֹׁ֥פְטֵי
even all the judges
to judge, i.e., pronounce sentence (for or against); by implication, to vindicate or punish; by extenssion, to govern; passively, to litigate (literal
#7
צֶֽדֶק׃
of the earth
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

Analysis

This verse develops the kingdom of God theme central to Proverbs. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of kingdom of God 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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