Proverbs 8:18

Authorized King James Version

Riches and honour are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
עֹֽשֶׁר
Riches
wealth
#2
וְכָב֥וֹד
and honour
properly, weight, but only figuratively in a good sense, splendor or copiousness
#3
אִתִּ֑י
properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc
#4
ה֥וֹן
riches
wealth; by implication, enough
#5
עָ֝תֵ֗ק
are with me yea durable
antique, i.e., valued
#6
וּצְדָקָֽה׃
and righteousness
rightness (abstractly), subjectively (rectitude), objectively (justice), morally (virtue) or figuratively (prosperity)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Proverbs. The concept of righteousness 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 literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Proverbs Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes righteousness in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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