Proverbs 8:2

Authorized King James Version

She standeth in the top of high places, by the way in the places of the paths.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בְּרֹאשׁ
in the top
the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)
#2
מְרֹמִ֥ים
of high places
altitude, i.e., concretely (an elevated place), abstractly (elevation, figuratively (elation), or adverbially (aloft)
#3
עֲלֵי
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#4
דָ֑רֶךְ
by the way
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
#5
בֵּ֖ית
in the places
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
#6
נְתִיב֣וֹת
of the paths
a (beaten) track
#7
נִצָּֽבָה׃
She standeth
to station, in various applications (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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