Proverbs 8:28

Authorized King James Version

When he established the clouds above: when he strengthened the fountains of the deep:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בְּאַמְּצ֣וֹ
When he established
to be alert, physically (on foot) or mentally (in courage)
#2
שְׁחָקִ֣ים
the clouds
a powder (as beaten small); by analogy, a thin vapor; by extension, the firmament
#3
מִמָּ֑עַל
above
properly,the upper part, used only adverbially with prefix upward, above, overhead, from the top, etc
#4
בַּ֝עֲז֗וֹז
when he strengthened
to be stout (literally or figuratively)
#5
עִינ֥וֹת
the fountains
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
#6
תְּהוֹם׃
of the deep
an abyss (as a surging mass of water), especially the deep (the main sea or the subterranean watersupply)

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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