Proverbs 8:4

Authorized King James Version

Unto you, O men, I call; and my voice is to the sons of man.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אֲלֵיכֶ֣ם
near, with or among; often in general, to
#2
אִישִׁ֣ים
Unto you O men
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
#3
אֶקְרָ֑א
I call
to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)
#4
וְ֝קוֹלִ֗י
and my voice
a voice or sound
#5
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#6
בְּנֵ֥י
is to the sons
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#7
אָדָֽם׃
of man
ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)

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

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics