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Proverbs 7:22 — Word Study

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WLCה֤וֹלֵ֥ךְ אַחֲרֶ֗יהָ פִּ֫תְאֹ֥ם כְּ֭שׁוֹר אֶל־ טָ֣בַח יָב֑וֹא וּ֝כְעֶ֗כֶס אֶל־ מוּסַ֥ר אֱוִֽיל׃

BSAHe follows herhâlak [immediately, straight away] on impulsepithʼôwm [suddenly, without thinking] like an oxshôwr [cattle, a beast of burden] goingbôwʼ toʼêl the slaughterṭebach [to be killed, a place of death] like a deerʼĕvîyl [a stag, a fool] boundingʻekeç [stepping, rushing] intoʼêl a trapmûwçâr [a snare, a noose]

Word
Listen & take awayProverbs 7
English ↓ Download MP3 The Berean Standard Bible chapter audio already hosted for the site's Bible section — verse 22 is in this chapter.
Hebrew ↓ Download MP3 The Masoretic text of this chapter, read aloud. Read by Abraham Shmuelof, courtesy of Audio Scriptures International. Chapter divisions by the Academy of Ancient Languages..
Say the word Each Hebrew word carries its transliteration ('e.Vil) — no per-word recordings of the Hebrew exist to link to.
Take it away
Proverbs 7:22quick helps
In a sentenceThe verse illustrates the impulsive and reckless behavior of a man following a seductive woman, comparing him to an ox and a deer.
Who is speakingThe speaker is a father or wise figure advising his sons about the dangers of temptation.
Where we areThis verse is part of a warning against the seductive allure of immoral behavior, found in the context of Proverbs.
The hard wordאֱוִיל
Take awayThe imagery of animals going to their doom serves as a stark warning about the consequences of foolishness.
8 commentators on this verse Gill, Jamieson, Poole, Trapp & more — read them › clause subjectכְּ verbהָלַךְ The sentence as the grammar sees it Open the tree ›
How rare are these words?in the Old Testament

Every word here is used elsewhere in the Old Testament.

Bars are logarithmic — אֵת, the commonest word in the Hebrew Bible, stands about 11,000 times, so a linear scale would leave everything else invisible. Click a row to open that word.

Deep Study — Proverbs 7:22

Sections marked generated are written from the data on this page rather than by a named author. Everything else — the lexicon entries, the cross references, the manuscript readings, the counts — is quoted from its source unchanged.

Context — Warnings Against Temptationgenerated

21With her great persuasion she entices him; with her flattering lips she lures him.
22He follows her on impulse, like an ox going to the slaughter, like a deer bounding into a trap,
23until an arrow pierces his liver, like a bird darting into a snare— not knowing it will cost him his life.
24Now, my sons, listen to me, and attend to the words of my mouth.

Proverbs 7:22 warns against the impulsive nature of succumbing to temptation. The preceding verses describe how a seductive woman entices a man, leading him to destruction. This passage serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of following desires without thought, emphasizing the importance of wisdom and restraint.


Cross References

ReferenceText (BSB)
1Acts 14:13The priest of Zeus, whose temple was just outside the city, brought bulls and wreaths to the city gates, hoping to offer a sacrifice along with the crowds.
2Job 13:27You put my feet in the stocks and stand watch over all my paths; You set a limit for the soles of my feet.
3Jeremiah 20:2he had Jeremiah the prophet beaten and put in the stocks at the Upper Gate of Benjamin, which was by the house of the LORD.
4Acts 16:24On receiving this order, he placed them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge — 4 references, hung on the phrase they belong to


The Key Word אֱוִיל, 'e.Vilgenerated

The word אֱוִיל (eviyl) means 'foolish' and describes someone who lacks wisdom and understanding. It is used to characterize a person who despises knowledge and is often led astray by their impulses. The parsing indicates that it is an adjective, describing the nature of the person in the context of the verse.

In this verse, the foolishness of the man is highlighted by the comparison to an ox and a deer, both of which act without awareness of the danger they are heading towards. This word encapsulates the essence of the warning being given.


How Translations Differ — measured against the Berean Standard Biblegenerated

The verse is rendered in the Berean Standard Bible, which uses a fool for אֱוִיל. The KJV and several other versions agree with this rendering.

However, some translations, such as the FBV and NETB, choose a stag, which introduces a different nuance to the imagery of the verse. This difference highlights the various interpretations of the word's meaning.


Sentence Structuregenerated

The main verb of the sentence is הוֹלֵךְ, he follows, which governs the action of the subject. The structure includes several prepositional phrases that provide context for the action, describing how he follows her and the comparisons made.

The sentence presents a series of comparisons, emphasizing the impulsive nature of the subject's actions. The use of similes, such as comparing him to an ox and a deer, serves to illustrate the recklessness of his behavior.


Septuagint Backgroundgenerated

In the Septuagint, the Hebrew word אֱוִיל is translated with a Greek term that conveys a similar sense of foolishness. This choice reflects the translators' understanding of the moral implications of the original text.

The translation choices in the Septuagint align closely with the Hebrew, maintaining the cautionary tone of the passage.


In plain words — the whole versegenerated

Proverbs 7:22 warns about the dangers of following temptation without thinking. It compares a man who follows a seductive woman to an ox going to slaughter and a deer jumping into a trap, highlighting the foolishness of such actions.


Frequently Asked Questionsgenerated

What does it mean to be a fool in this context?

In this context, a fool is someone who lacks wisdom and understanding, often acting impulsively and disregarding the consequences of their actions.

How do the comparisons enhance the message of the verse?

The comparisons to an ox and a deer illustrate the recklessness of following temptation, emphasizing that such actions can lead to destruction.

What is the significance of the suddenness mentioned in the verse?

The suddenness highlights the impulsive nature of the man's actions, suggesting that he is not thinking about the consequences of his choices.

How can this verse apply to modern life?

This verse serves as a warning against acting on impulse without considering the potential dangers, a lesson that remains relevant today.


Reflection Questionsgenerated

  1. What are some temptations in my life that I might be following impulsively?
  2. How can I practice wisdom and restraint in my decisions?
  3. In what ways can I recognize the consequences of my actions before I act?
  4. How can I help others avoid the pitfalls of foolishness described in this verse?

The early church on this verse — how the Fathers read it

Early commentators like Hippolytus of Rome and Bede reference this verse to discuss the dangers of foolishness and temptation.

Hippolytus of RomeHippolytus Exegetical Fragments c. 170–235
The "cemphus" is a kind of wild sea-bird, which has so immoderate an impulse to sexual enjoyment, that its eyes seem to fill with blood in coition; and it often blindly falls into snares, or into the hands of men.
Early Church Fathers on Proverbs 7 →
BedeCommentary on Proverbs c. 673–735
Immediately he follows her, etc. That is, as if a foolish person, not knowing, he himself is led to destruction.
Early Church Fathers on Proverbs 7 →

Commentators on this verse — 8 expositors, verse by verse

Each of these wrote on Proverbs 7:22 itself, not merely on the chapter around it.

John Gill1697–1771Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

He goeth after her straightway,.... Or "suddenly" (g); and inconsiderately, giving himself no time to think of what would be the sad consequences of it; as an ox goeth to the slaughter; as senseless

Read John Gill on Proverbs 7 →
Robert Jamieson1802–1880Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown's Commentary

He goeth after her straightway, as an ox goeth to the slaughter, or as a fool to the correction of the stocks; He goeth after her straightway, as an ox goeth to the slaughter, or as a fool to the

Read Robert Jamieson on Proverbs 7 →
Matthew Poole1624–1679Matthew Poole's Commentary on the Holy Bible

Straightway; without delay and consideration. As an ox to the slaughter; either being drawn and driven to it; or going to it securely, as if it were going to a good pasture. As a fool to the correction of the stocks; or, which is more agreeable to the order of the words in the Hebrew text, as one in fetters, or bound with fetters, to the correction of a fool, i.e. to receive such correction or punishment as belongs to fools; which may imply either, 1. That he hath no more sense of the shame and mischief which he is bringing upon himself than a fool. Or, 2. That he can no more resist the temptation, nor avoid the danger, than a man fast tied with chains or fetters can free himself, although…

Read Matthew Poole on Proverbs 7 →
John Trapp1601–1669Trapp's Complete Commentary on the Old and New Testaments

Proverbs 7:22 He goeth after her straightway, as an ox goeth to the slaughter, or as a fool to the correction of the stocks;Ver. 22. He goeth after her straightway.] Without any consideration of the sad consequences. Lust had blinded and besotted him, and even transformed him into a brute. Nos animas etiam incarnavimus, saith one. Many men have made their very spirit a lump of flesh, and are hurried on to hell with greatest violence. Chide them, you do but give medicine in a fit; counsel them, you do but give advice to a man that is running a race; be your counsel never so good, he cannot stay to hear you, but will be ready to answer, as Antipater did when one presented him with a book…

Read John Trapp on Proverbs 7 →
Charles John Ellicott1819–1905Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers

(22) Or as a fool to the correction of the stocks.—This sense is only gained by a transposition of the original. It has been attempted to translate it literally “and as if in fetters to where one corrects fools,” i.e., to prison.

Read Charles John Ellicott on Proverbs 7 →
AdamClarkeAdam Clarke's Commentary on the Bible

Verse 22. As an ox goeth to the slaughter] The original of this and the following verse has been variously translated. Dr. Grey corrects and translates thus: "He goeth after her straightway, as an OX goeth to the SLAUGHTER; as a DOG to the CHAIN; and as a DEER till the DART strike through his liver; as a BIRD hasteneth to the SNARE, and knoweth not that it is for its life." Very slight alterations in the Hebrew text produce these differences; but it is not necessary to pursue them; all serve to mark the stupidity and folly of the man who is led away by enticing women or who lives a life of intemperance.

Read AdamClarke on Proverbs 7 →
CambridgeThe Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges

22. straightway] “Heb. suddenly,” A.V. and R.V. margins. He has been as one hesitating on the brink. Now he takes the sudden plunge. “Here is evidently a stroke in the picture of the profoundest psychological truth.” Lange, Comm. as a fool to the correction of the stocks] This rendering is reached by transposing the Heb. words fool and stocks. The rendering of R.V. text, as fetters to the correction of the fool, is literal, and is taken to mean, as senselessly and as certainly as the dumb instruments of his punishment dog the steps of the fool. The alternative of R.V. marg., as one in fetters, is admissible in grammar, but loses the point of comparison, viz. his entire oblivion of…

Read Cambridge on Proverbs 7 →
Albert Barnes1798–1870Barnes' Notes on the Bible

As a fool ... - literally, “As a fetter to the correction of a fool,” the order of which is inverted in the King James Version The Septuagint, followed by the Syriac Version, has another reading, and

Read Albert Barnes on Proverbs 7 →

The verse in English, compared — 17 translations, and where they part company

Every translation on this page is a decision someone had to make and commit to. Read down a column and you see one translator's judgement; read across a row and you see the range the Greek actually allows. The BSB is the wording the rest of this page is measured against, so it is listed first.

Modern formal

BSBBerean Standard Bible2020

He follows her on impulse, like an ox going to the slaughter, like a deer bounding into a trap,

WEBWorld English Bible2000

He followed her immediately, as an ox goes to the slaughter, as a fool stepping into a noose.

MSBMajority Standard Bible2022

He follows her on impulse, like an ox going to the slaughter, like a deer bounding into a trap,

NETBNew English Translation2006

Suddenly he went after her like an ox that goes to the slaughter, like a stag prancing into a trapper’s snare

Tyndale line

KJVKing James Version1611

He goeth after her straightway, as an ox goeth to the slaughter, or as a fool to the correction of the stocks;

ASVAmerican Standard Version1901

He goeth after her straightway, As an ox goeth to the slaughter, Or as one in fetters to the correction of the fool;

RVARevised Version, American1894

He goeth after her straightway, as an ox goeth to the slaughter, or as fetters to the correction of the fool;

NWBWebster's Bible1833

He goeth after her quickly, as an ox goeth to the slaughter, or as a fool to the correction of the stocks;

GNVGeneva Bible1599

And he followed her straight wayes, as an oxe that goeth to the slaughter, and as a foole to the stockes for correction,

Strictly literal

DBYDarby Translation1890

He went after her straightway, as an ox goeth to the slaughter, and as stocks [serve] for the correction of the fool;

YLTYoung's Literal Translation1862

He is going after her straightway, As an ox unto the slaughter he cometh, And as a fetter unto the chastisement of a fool,

LSVLiteral Standard Version2020

He is going after her straight away, he comes as an ox to the slaughter, || And as a chain to the discipline of a fool,

ILTInterlinear Literal Translation2000

He followed after her suddenly, as an ox goeth to the slaughter, and as in fetters to his correction, the fool:

ULBUnlocked Literal Bible2017

He went after her suddenly like an ox going to slaughter, like a deer caught in a trap,

From the Latin

DRADouay-Rheims (Challoner)1899

Immediately he followeth her as an ox led to be a victim, and as a lamb playing the wanton, and not knowing that he is drawn like a fool to bonds,

Simplified

FBVFree Bible Version2020

He followed her right away, like an ox to the slaughter. Like a stag that's caught in a snare

BBEBible in Basic English1949

The simple man goes after her, like an ox going to its death, like a roe pulled by a cord;

Word by word, the decisions they made

אֱוִֽיל׃'e.Vil a fool H191 2 different renderings
a foolDRA KJV LSV NWB WEB YLT
a stagFBV NETB

Counted from the translations carried on this site, not from a survey of every English Bible. A rendering shared by many versions is usually inherited rather than independently arrived at — the Tyndale line in particular runs through most of them.


The sentence as the grammar sees it — from the MACULA Hebrew treebank

This is not our own analysis: it is the scholarly syntax tree for the verse, showing how the clause actually holds together.

clauseverbה֤וֹלֵ֥ךְ[he.is].walkingprepositional phrase · prepositionalאַחֲרֶ֗יbehindהָheradverbialפִּ֫תְאֹ֥םsuddenlyprepositional phrase · prepositionalprepositional phraseכְּ֭likeclausesubjectשׁוֹרan.oxprepositional phrase · prepositionalאֶל[which].toטָ֣בַח[the].slaughterverbיָב֑וֹאit.goesוּ֝andprepositional phraseכְlikeclausesubjectעֶ֗כֶסan.ankletprepositional phrase · prepositionalאֶלtonoun phraseמוּסַ֥ר[the].chasteningאֱוִֽילof.a.fool

Boxes are the grammarian's groupings — clause, noun phrase, prepositional phrase.


The four witnesses to this verse — Masoretic, Septuagint, Samaritan, Qumran

The Masoretic Text and the Septuagint largely agree in their wording, with 9 out of 11 words matching. This consistency indicates a shared understanding of the verse's message across these ancient texts.

Masoretic TextLeningrad Codex, c. AD 1008 — the text this page is built on

ה֤וֹלֵ֥ךְ אַחֲרֶ֗יהָ פִּ֫תְאֹ֥ם כְּ֭שׁוֹר אֶל־ טָ֣בַח יָב֑וֹא וּ֝כְעֶ֗כֶס אֶל־ מוּסַ֥ר אֱוִֽיל׃

Septuagintthe Greek the translators chose, word by word
אַחֲרֶ֗יהָפִּ֫תְאֹ֥םκεπφωθείςכְּ֭שׁוֹרὥσπερאֶל־ἐπὶטָ֣בַחσφαγὴνיָב֑וֹאἄγεταιוּ֝כְעֶ֗כֶסκύωνאֶל־ἐπὶמוּסַ֥רδεσμοὺς

9 of the 11 words are matched. This is the word-by-word correspondence, not the Septuagint's own sentence — its word order and its articles are its own.

Four traditions, not one. “On the leather” means the letters physically survive on the scroll, as against letters an editor has supplied to fill a hole in it — a restoration is a scholar’s reading, not a reading of the manuscript. Words in [square brackets] are supplied; the notes count them apart from what survives.


The map of this verse — what each word keeps company with

This is a map of two things, both counted rather than judged. Company kept: which words stand within three words of each of these, anywhere in the Hebrew Bible — the thicker the line, the more often the pair meet compared with chance. Built from: the words a word is made out of, taken from its own Strong’s entry. It is not a map of meaning: nothing here claims two words mean the same thing. Click any circle to see the numbers behind it.

Proverbs 7:22הָלַךְ[he is] wal[he is] walkingהָלַךְאַחַרbehind herbehind herאַחַרפִּתְאֹםsuddenlysuddenlyפִּתְאֹםשׁוֹרlike an oxlike an oxשׁוֹראֶל[which] to[which] toאֶלטֶ֫בַח[the] slaug[the] slaughterטֶ֫בַחבּוֹאit goesit goesבּוֹאעֶ֫כֶסand like anand like an ankעֶ֫כֶסאֶלtotoאֶלמוּסָר[the] chast[the] chasteninמוּסָראֱוִילa foola foolאֱוִילפֶּתַעsuddennesssuddennessפֶּתַעטָבַחto slaughtto slaughterטָבַחאָחַרto delayto delayאָחַרשׁוּרto travelto travelשׁוּרעָכַסto tinkleto tinkleעָכַסיָסַרto disciplto disciplineיָסַרהָלַךְto walkto walkהָלַךְפָּלַלto prayto prayפָּלַליִרְמְיָ֫הJeremiahJeremiahיִרְמְיָ֫הדֶּ֫רֶךְway: roadway: roadדֶּ֫רֶךְחֻקָּהstatutestatuteחֻקָּהרָדַףto pursueto pursueרָדַףזָנָהto fornicato fornicateזָנָהאֵידcalamitycalamityאֵידשֶׂהsheepsheepשֶׂהחֲמוֹרdonkeydonkeyחֲמוֹרפָּתַחto opento openפָּתַחשֶׁ֫מֶשׁsunsunשֶׁ֫מֶשׁ
meets it a little oftener than chancemeets it far oftener than chancebuilt from the same roottwo words of the verse share ita word of this versea related word

Lexicons — every word in Proverbs 7:22

One dossier per word, with every reference work grouped by kind — Hebrew lexicons, morphology, Bible dictionaries, topical chains and the English of the translators themselves. The verse sits at the head of each block with the word under study lit, so you never lose your place. The panel above gives the short answer; this is the long one, and it is the part of the page worth indexing.

Every entry below is the lexicographer's own text. On the Hebrew: Brown-Driver-Briggs entire and its gloss set, Strong's Hebrew Dictionary, and Tyndale House's Translators Brief lexicon. Where a cell says a work has no entry, that work genuinely has none for this word.

[he is] walking behind her suddenly like an ox [which] to [the] slaughter it goes and like an anklet to [the] chastening of a fool
ה֤וֹלֵ֥ךְho.Lekh [he is] walking H1980 Verb · Qal · participle (active) masculine singular
1,549× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
Means to walk or go, used in many different contexts in the Bible. It can describe physical movement, but also spiritual or emotional journeys. Appears in various forms, such as 'to go' or 'to walk'.
Amplified meaning
immediately, straight away
Tyndale gloss
to go: walk
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

הָלַךְ (halak) means 'to go,' 'come,' or 'walk,' and covers a wide range of literal and figurative uses, including aspects of life and death. It can describe physical movement, moral conduct, and even influence on character. The verb appears in various forms, such as Qal, Piel, and Hithpael, indicating different nuances like leading or traversing.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

הָלַךְ 1546 vb. go, come, walk

Qal Impf. usually (629 t.) as if from ילך

lit.

of persons

Also of animals, in similar meanings and combinations

in like manner of inanimate things

The inf. abs. is often used

as in other vbs., quite independently

to intensify meaning of finite form

most noteworthy is the joining of the Inf. abs.

with a following Inf. abs. denoting a simutaneous action or process, and so emphasizing duration or continuance

with a foll. vb. fin. c. ו consec. (rare)

in cases where vb. fin. is foll. by Inf. abs. adj. denoting progress, advance

twice, where vb. fin. is not הלך, but another vb. denoting motion

quite by itself

13 t. the Inf. abs. = Imv. & is followed by Pf. consec.

akin to the use of Inf. abs. are some instances of Pt.

In combination with other verbal forms

Fig.; the most common uses follow; in most the origin in a literal meaning is evident:

pass away, die

Read the full entry →
Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H1980 הָלַךְ go, come, walk .Impf. usually (629 t.) as if from ילך . lit. . of persons

. Also of animals, in similar meanings and combinations

. in like manner of inanimate things

. The inf. abs. is often used . as in other vbs., quite independently

. to intensify meaning of finite form

. most noteworthy is the joining of the Inf. abs. . with a following Inf. abs. denoting a simutaneous action or process, and so emphasizing duration or continuance

. with a foll. vb. fin. c. ו consec. (rare)

. in cases where vb. fin. is foll. by Inf. abs. + adj. denoting progress, advance

. twice, where vb. fin. is not הלך, but another vb. denoting motion

. quite by itself

. 13 t. the Inf. abs. = Imv. & is followed by Pf. consec.

. akin to the use of Inf. abs. are some instances of Pt.

. In combination with other verbal forms

Read the full entry →
Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

1980 halak haw-lak'

akin to 3212; a primitive root; to walk (in a great variety

of applications, literally and figuratively):--(all) along,

apace, behave (self), come, (on) continually, be conversant,

depart, + be eased, enter, exercise (self), + follow, forth,

forward, get, go (about, abroad, along, away, forward, on,

out, up and down), + greater, grow, be wont to haunt, lead,

march, X more and more, move (self), needs, on, pass (away),

be at the point, quite, run (along), + send, speedily, spread,

still, surely, + tale-bearer, + travel(-ler), walk (abroad,

on, to and fro, up and down, to places), wander, wax,

(way-)faring man, X be weak, whirl.

see HEBREW for 03212

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

הָלַךְ (ha.lakh) — to go: went.

: went/go[away]

1) to go, walk, come

1a) (Qal)

1a1) to go, walk, come, depart, proceed, move, go away

1a2) to die, live, manner of life (fig.)

1b) (Piel)

1b1) to walk

1b2) to walk (fig.)

1c) (Hithpael)

1c1) to traverse

1c2) to walk about

1d) (Niphal) to lead, bring, lead away, carry, cause to walk

הָלַךְ (ha.lakh) — to go: come.

: come[nearer]

1) to go, walk, come

1a) (Qal)

1a1) to go, walk, come, depart, proceed, move, go away

1a2) to die, live, manner of life (fig.)

1b) (Piel)

1b1) to walk

1b2) to walk (fig.)

1c) (Hithpael)

1c1) to traverse

1c2) to walk about

1d) (Niphal) to lead, bring, lead away, carry, cause to walk

הָלַךְ (ha.lakh) — to go: walk.

: walk/move

1) to go, walk, come

1a) (Qal)

1a1) to go, walk, come, depart, proceed, move, go away

1a2) to die, live, manner of life (fig.)

1b) (Piel)

1b1) to walk

1b2) to walk (fig.)

1c) (Hithpael)

1c1) to traverse

Read the full entry →
Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
V-Qal — Verb · Qal · participle (active) masculine singular
HVqrmsa
Bible dictionarieson the English sense
Nave's Topical Bible

→ With God

According to his commands De 5:33; Ps 1; Jer 7:23

In his ways De 28:9; Jos 22:5

In the old paths Jer 6:16

As taught by him 1Ki 8:36; Isa 2:3; 30:21

Uprightly Pr 2:7

In his statutes and judgments Eze 37:24

In newness of life Ro 6:4

[he is] walking behind her suddenly like an ox [which] to [the] slaughter it goes and like an anklet to [the] chastening of a fool
אַחֲרֶ֗יהָ'a.cha.Rei.ha behind her H310 Suffix
716× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
Achar means backwards or after, used to describe something that happens later or in the rear. It is used in various senses in the Bible, including in 1 Kings 12:18.
Tyndale gloss
after
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

The Hebrew word אַחַר (*achar*) primarily denotes the concept of 'after' or 'behind' in both spatial and temporal contexts. It functions as a substantive, adverb, preposition, and conjunction, indicating a following part or time. The related form אַחֲרַי (*acharai*) refers to a person who turns backwards. There is a reference to Proverbs 28:23 in relation to the latter.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

אַחַר prop. subst. the hinder or following part

adv.

of place, behind

of time, afterwards

prep.

of place, behind, after

of time, after

conj. after that.

base

אַחֲרַי adj. Pr 28:23 a man that turneth backwards.

ref

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H310a אַחַר prop. subst. the hinder or following part . adv. . of place, behind

. of time, afterwards

. prep. . of place, behind, after

. of time, after

. conj. after that.

H310b אַחֲרַי a man that turneth backwards.

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

310 'achar akh-ar'

from 309; properly, the hind part; generally used as an

adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses):--after

(that, -ward), again, at, away from, back (from, -side),

behind, beside, by, follow (after, -ing), forasmuch, from,

hereafter, hinder end, + out (over) live, + persecute,

posterity, pursuing, remnant, seeing, since, thence(-forth),

when, with.

see HEBREW for 0309

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

אַחַר (a.char) — after.

1) after the following part, behind (of place), hinder, afterwards (of time)

1a) as an adverb

1a1) behind (of place)

1a2) afterwards (of time)

1b) as a preposition

1b1) behind, after (of place)

1b2) after (of time)

1b3) besides

1c) as a conjunction

1c) after that

1d) as a substantive

1d1) hinder part

1e) with other prepositions

1e1) from behind

1e2) from following after

אַחֲרַי (a.cha.ray) — backwards.

backwards (of a man that turns backwards)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
HAcmpc/Sp3fs — Suffix
HAcmpc/Sp3fs
[he is] walking behind her suddenly like an ox [which] to [the] slaughter it goes and like an anklet to [the] chastening of a fool
פִּ֫תְאֹ֥םpit.'Om suddenly H6597 Adverb
25× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This word means happening suddenly or quickly, like an unexpected event. It is used in the Bible to describe surprising things that happen to people like Jacob and Joseph.
Amplified meaning
suddenly, without thinking
Tyndale gloss
suddenly
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

פִּתְאֹם (pit'om) means 'suddenly' and can also refer to 'suddenness.' It is primarily used as an adverb to describe an unexpected occurrence. The word is derived from another Hebrew term, but the entries do not provide specific verses where it is used.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

פִּתְאֹם, once פֵּתְאוֹם subst. suddenness, usu. as adv. acc. suddenly

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H6597 פִּתְאֹם, once פֵּתְאוֹם suddenness, usu. as adv. acc. suddenly

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

6597 pith'owm pith-ome'

or pith.om {pith-ome'}; from 6621; instantly:--straightway,

sudden(-ly).

see HEBREW for 06621

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

פִּתְאֹם (pit.om) — suddenly.

adv

1) suddenly, surprisingly

subst

2) suddenness

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Adv — Adverb
HD
[he is] walking behind her suddenly like an ox [which] to [the] slaughter it goes and like an anklet to [the] chastening of a fool
כְּ֭שׁוֹרKe.shor like an ox H7794 Preposition · noun common masculine singular absolute
79× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This word refers to cattle, like oxen or bulls, used for work, food, or sacrifices, as seen in Genesis and Leviticus.
Amplified meaning
cattle, a beast of burden
Tyndale gloss
cattle
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

שׁוֹר (shor) refers to a head of cattle, specifically a bullock or ox, and is associated with agricultural and sacrificial contexts. It is derived from the root meaning to travel, indicating its role in farming and food. The term appears in various forms and usages, including in Aramaic.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

שׁוֹר 78 n.m. a head of cattle, bullock, ox, etc.

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H7794 שׁוֹר a head of cattle, bullock, ox, etc.

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

7794 showr shore

from 7788; a bullock (as a traveller):--bull(-ock), cow, ox,

wall (by mistake for 7791).

see HEBREW for 07788

see HEBREW for 07791

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

שׁוֹר (shor) — cattle.

1) ox, bull, a head of cattle

1a) for plowing, for food, as sacrifice

Aramaic equivalent: tor (תּוֹר "bullock" H8450)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Prep | N-ms — Preposition · noun common masculine singular absolute
HR/Ncmsa
Bible dictionarieson the English sense
Easton's Bible Dictionary

Ox

Heb. bakar, “cattle;” “neat cattle”, (Gen. 12:16; 34:28; Job 1:3, 14; 42:12, etc.); not to be muzzled when treading the corn (Deut. 25:4). Referred to by our Lord in his reproof to the Pharisees (Luke 13:15; 14:5).

Smith's Bible Dictionary

There was no animal in the rural economy of the Israelites, or indeed in that of the ancient Orientals generally, that was held in higher esteem than the ox and deservedly so, for the ox was the animal upon whose patient labors depended all the ordinary operations of farming. Oxen were used for ploughing, (22:10; 1 Samuel 14:14) etc.; for treading out corn, (25:4; Hosea 10:11) etc.; for draught purposes, when they were generally yoked in pairs, (Numbers 7:3; 1 Samuel 6:7) etc.; as beasts of burden, (1 Chronicles 12:40) their flesh was eaten, (14:4; 1 Kings 1:9) etc.…

American Tract Society Bible Dictionary

The male of the beeve kind when grown, synonymous in the Bible with BULL; a clean animal, by the Levitical law; much used for food, 1Ki 19:21, and constituting no small part of the wealth of the Hebrews in their pastoral life, Ge 24:35 Job 1:14 42:12. Oxen were used in agriculture for ploughing, 1Ki 19:19; and for treading out the grain, during which they were not to be muzzled, 1Co 9:9, but well fed, Isa 30:24. The testing of a new yoke of oxen is still a business of great importance in the East, as of old, Lu…

[he is] walking behind her suddenly like an ox [which] to [the] slaughter it goes and like an anklet to [the] chastening of a fool
אֶל־'el- [which] to H413 Preposition
5,518× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Tyndale gloss
to(wards)
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

The Hebrew word אֶל (el) is primarily a preposition indicating motion towards or direction to a person or place. It can also imply entering a limit, presence at a location, or a hostile direction (against). Additionally, it may express concepts such as concerning, in addition to, or according to. The entries highlight its versatility in both physical and metaphorical contexts.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

אֶל (nearly always followed by Makkeph),

prep. denoting motion to or direction towards (whether physical or mental).of motion to or unto a person or place

Where the limit is actually entered, into

Of direction towards anything

Where the motion or direction implied appears from the context to be of a hostile character, אֶל = against

Unto sometimes acquires from the context the sense of in addition to

Metaph. in regard to, concerning, on account of

Of rule or standard according to (rare)

Expressing presence at a spot, against, at, by, not merely after verbs implying motion

Prefixed to other preps. it combines with them the idea of motion or direction to

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H413 אֶל (nearly always followed by Makkeph), . of motion to or unto a person or place

. Where the limit is actually entered, into

. Of direction towards anything

. Where the motion or direction implied appears from the context to be of a hostile character, אֶל = against

. Unto sometimes acquires from the context the sense of in addition to

. Metaph. in regard to, concerning, on account of

. Of rule or standard according to (rare)

. Expressing presence at a spot, against, at, by, not merely after verbs implying motion

. Prefixed to other preps. it combines with them the idea of motion or direction to

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

413 'el ale

(but only used in the shortened constructive form sel {el});

a primitive particle; properly, denoting motion towards, but

occasionally used of a quiescent position, i.e. near, with or

among; often in general, to:--about, according to ,after,

against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and,

by, concerning, for, from, X hath, in(- to), near, (out) of,

over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether,

with(-in).

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

אֶל (el) — to(wards).

1) to, toward, unto (of motion)

2) into (limit is actually entered)

2a) in among

3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion)

4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character)

5) in addition to, to

6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of

7) according to (rule or standard)

8) at, by, against (of one's presence)

9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Prep — Preposition
HR
[he is] walking behind her suddenly like an ox [which] to [the] slaughter it goes and like an anklet to [the] chastening of a fool
טָ֣בַחTa.vach [the] slaughter H2874 Noun common · masculine singular absolute
12× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This Hebrew word refers to the act of slaughter or the meat that results from it, and can also mean a place of slaughter. It is used to describe the brutal killing of animals or people. The concept is used in both literal and figurative senses.
Amplified meaning
to be killed, a place of death
Tyndale gloss
slaughter
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

טֶ֫בַח (tebach) refers to slaughtering or the act of slaughter. It denotes something that has been slaughtered, typically animals, and can also refer to butchery or a place where slaughter occurs. The word is derived from a related term, indicating its connection to the process of killing for food.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

טֶ֫בַח n.m. slaughtering, slaughter

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H2874 טֶ֫בַח slaughtering, slaughter

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

2874 tebach teh'-bakh

from 2873; properly, something slaughtered; hence, a beast

(or meat, as butchered); abstr. butchery (or concretely, a

place of slaughter):--X beast, slaughter, X slay, X sore.

see HEBREW for 02873

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

טֶ֫בַח (te.vach) — slaughter.

1) slaughter, slaughtering, animal

1a) slaughtering, slaughter (of animals)

1b) slaughter (fig.)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
N-ms — Noun common · masculine singular absolute
HNcmsa
[he is] walking behind her suddenly like an ox [which] to [the] slaughter it goes and like an anklet to [the] chastening of a fool
יָב֑וֹאya.Vo' it goes H935 Verb · Qal · imperfect third person masculine singular
2,573× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.
Tyndale gloss
Lebo
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

בּוֹא (bo) is a Hebrew verb meaning to come or go in, with a wide range of applications including entering, arriving, and bringing in. It can refer to both physical movement and abstract concepts like events coming to pass. The verb appears in various forms, such as Qal (to come), Hiphil (to cause to come), and Hophal (to be brought). There is no significant disagreement among lexicons regarding its meanings.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

בּוֹא 2569 vb. come in, come, go in, go

Qal

come in

come (approach, arrive)

go, i.e. walk, associate with

go from speaker, but with limit of motion given

Hiph.

cause to come in, bring in (conduct, lead, obj. persons and animals)

cause to come, bring, bring near, etc. (animate obj.)

Hoph.

be brought in (of pers. and things)

be brought

be introduced, put

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H935 בּוֹא come in, come, go in, go .. come in

. come (approach, arrive)

. go, i.e. walk, associate with

. go from speaker, but with limit of motion given

. . cause to come in, bring in (conduct, lead, obj. persons and animals)

. cause to come, bring, bring near, etc. (animate obj.)

. . be brought in (of pers. and things)

. be brought

. be introduced, put

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

935 bow' bo

a primitive root; to go or come (in a wide variety of

applications):--abide, apply, attain, X be, befall, +

besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, X

certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out,

upon, to pass), depart, X doubtless again, + eat, + employ,

(cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be

fallen, fetch, + follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war),

grant, + have, X indeed, (in-)vade, lead, lift (up), mention,

pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, X (well) stricken

(in age), X surely, take (in), way.

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

בּוֹא (bo) — to come (in): come.

: come/go_in

1) to go in, enter, come, go, come in

1a) (Qal)

1a1) to enter, come in

1a2) to come

1a2a) to come with

1a2b) to come upon, fall or light upon, attack (enemy)

1a2c) to come to pass

1a3) to attain to

1a4) to be enumerated

1a5) to go

1b) (Hiphil)

1b1) to lead in

1b2) to carry in

1b3) to bring in, cause to come in, gather, cause to come, bring near, bring against, bring upon

1b4) to bring to pass

1c) (Hophal)

1c1) to be brought, brought in

1c2) to be introduced, be put

לְב֥וֹא (bo) — Lebo-(Hamath).

This name means to go in, enter

Combined with cha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574)

בּוֹא (bo) — to come (in): towards.

: towards/entrance

1) to go in, enter, come, go, come in

1a) (Qal)

1a1) to enter, come in

1a2) to come

1a2a) to come with

1a2b) to come upon, fall or light upon, attack (enemy)

1a2c) to come to pass

1a3) to attain to

1a4) to be enumerated

Read the full entry →
Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms — Verb · Qal · imperfect third person masculine singular
HVqi3ms
The company it keepswords that stand beside it more often than chance
[he is] walking behind her suddenly like an ox [which] to [the] slaughter it goes and like an anklet to [the] chastening of a fool
וּ֝כְעֶ֗כֶסu.khe.'E.khes and like an anklet H5914 Conjunction · preposition · noun common masculine singular absolute
2× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
An anklet or bangle is a type of jewelry, also referred to as a fetter, which can be decorative or symbolic in biblical contexts.
Amplified meaning
stepping, rushing
Tyndale gloss
anklet
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

עֶ֫כֶס (ekec) refers to an anklet or bangle, derived from a root meaning 'fetter.' The entries consistently describe it as a type of ornament, specifically one that tinkled, suggesting a decorative function. There are no significant disagreements among the lexicons.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

[עֶ֫כֶס] n.[m.] anklet, bangle

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H5914 [עֶ֫כֶס] anklet, bangle

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

5914 `ekec eh'-kes

from 5913; a fetter; hence, an anklet:--stocks, tinkling

ornament.

see HEBREW for 05913

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

עֶ֫כֶס (e.khes) — anklet.

anklet, bangle

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Conj | Prep | N-ms — Conjunction · preposition · noun common masculine singular absolute
HC/R/Ncmsa
Bible dictionarieson the English sense
Smith's Bible Dictionary

This word does not occur in the Authorized Version; but anklets are referred to in (Isaiah 3:16,18,20) They were fastened to the ankle band of each leg; were as common as bracelets and armlets and made of much the same material. The pleasant jingling and tinkling which they made as they knocked against each other was no doubt one of the reasons why they were admired, They are still worn in the East.

[he is] walking behind her suddenly like an ox [which] to [the] slaughter it goes and like an anklet to [the] chastening of a fool
אֶל־'el- to H413 Preposition
5,518× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Tyndale gloss
to(wards)
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

The Hebrew word אֶל (el) is primarily a preposition indicating motion towards or direction to a person or place. It can also imply entering a limit, presence at a location, or a hostile direction (against). Additionally, it may express concepts such as concerning, in addition to, or according to. The entries highlight its versatility in both physical and metaphorical contexts.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

אֶל (nearly always followed by Makkeph),

prep. denoting motion to or direction towards (whether physical or mental).of motion to or unto a person or place

Where the limit is actually entered, into

Of direction towards anything

Where the motion or direction implied appears from the context to be of a hostile character, אֶל = against

Unto sometimes acquires from the context the sense of in addition to

Metaph. in regard to, concerning, on account of

Of rule or standard according to (rare)

Expressing presence at a spot, against, at, by, not merely after verbs implying motion

Prefixed to other preps. it combines with them the idea of motion or direction to

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H413 אֶל (nearly always followed by Makkeph), . of motion to or unto a person or place

. Where the limit is actually entered, into

. Of direction towards anything

. Where the motion or direction implied appears from the context to be of a hostile character, אֶל = against

. Unto sometimes acquires from the context the sense of in addition to

. Metaph. in regard to, concerning, on account of

. Of rule or standard according to (rare)

. Expressing presence at a spot, against, at, by, not merely after verbs implying motion

. Prefixed to other preps. it combines with them the idea of motion or direction to

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

413 'el ale

(but only used in the shortened constructive form sel {el});

a primitive particle; properly, denoting motion towards, but

occasionally used of a quiescent position, i.e. near, with or

among; often in general, to:--about, according to ,after,

against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and,

by, concerning, for, from, X hath, in(- to), near, (out) of,

over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether,

with(-in).

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

אֶל (el) — to(wards).

1) to, toward, unto (of motion)

2) into (limit is actually entered)

2a) in among

3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion)

4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character)

5) in addition to, to

6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of

7) according to (rule or standard)

8) at, by, against (of one's presence)

9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Prep — Preposition
HR
[he is] walking behind her suddenly like an ox [which] to [the] slaughter it goes and like an anklet to [the] chastening of a fool
מוּסַ֥רmu.Sar [the] chastening of H4148 Noun common · masculine singular construct
50× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This Hebrew term means discipline or correction, often used to describe God's guidance. In Psalm 50:17, it warns against rejecting God's discipline, while in Proverbs 1:7, it emphasizes the importance of discipline in gaining wisdom. It involves learning from mistakes.
Amplified meaning
a snare, a noose
Tyndale gloss
discipline
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

מוּסָר (mūsar) refers to discipline, chastening, and correction, particularly of a moral nature. It encompasses concepts like reproof, warning, and instruction, and can also imply restraint or bonds. The entries consistently highlight its focus on moral and instructional aspects, with no significant disagreement among the lexicons.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

מוּסָר n.m. discipline (of the moral nature), chastening, correction

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H4148 מוּסָר discipline (of the moral nature), chastening, correction

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

4148 muwcar moo-sawr'

from 3256; properly, chastisement; figuratively, reproof,

warning or instruction; also restraint:--bond, chastening

((-eth)), chastisement, check, correction, discipline,

doctrine, instruction, rebuke.

see HEBREW for 03256

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

מוּסָר (mu.sar) — discipline.

: discipline/punishment

1) discipline, chastening, correction

1a) discipline, correction

1b) chastening

מוּסָר (mu.sar) — discipline: instruction.

: instruction

1) discipline, chastening, correction

1a) discipline, correction

1b) chastening

מוּסָר (mu.sar) — discipline: bonds.

: bonds/noose

1) discipline, chastening, correction

1a) discipline, correction

1b) chastening

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
N-ms — Noun common · masculine singular construct
HNcmsc
Bible dictionarieson the English sense
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

ov:

(1) In Anglo-Saxon, had the meaning "from," "away from" (as the strengthened form "off" has still), and was not used for genitive or possessive relations, these being expressed by special case-forms. In the Norman period, however, "of" was taken to represent the French de (a use well developed by the time of Chaucer), and in the Elizabethan period both senses of "of" were in common use. But after about 1600 the later force of the word became predominant, and in the earlier sense (which is now practically obsolete) it was replaced by other prepositions. In consequence the King James Version (and in some cases the Revised Version (British and American)) contains many uses of "of" that are no longer familiar--most of them, to be sure, causing no difficulty, but there still being a few responsible for real obscurities.

English usagewhat the translators’ English meant
Webster's Dictionary (1828), Webster's Unabridged (1913), Webster's Dictionary (1806)

OF, preposition ov. [Gr.]

1. From or out of; proceeding from, as the cause, source, means, author or agent bestowing.

I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered to you. 1 Corinthians 11:1.

For it was of the Lord to harden their hearts. Joshua 11:1.

It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed.

Lamentations 3:1.

The whole disposing thereof is of the Lord. Proverbs 16:1.

Go, inquire of the Lord for me. 2 Chronicles 34:2.

That holy thing that shall be born of thee. Luke 1:1.

Hence of is the sign of the genitive case, the case that denotes production; as the son of man, the son proceeding from man, produced from man. This is the primary sense, although we now say, produced by man. 'Part of these were slain; ' that is, a number separate, for part denotes a division; the sense then is, a number from or out of the whole were slain. So also, 'some of these were slain; ' that is…

[he is] walking behind her suddenly like an ox [which] to [the] slaughter it goes and like an anklet to [the] chastening of a fool
אֱוִֽיל׃'e.Vil a fool H191 Adj
26× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
The Hebrew word for a foolish person, someone who despises wisdom or mocks when guilty. It appears in the Bible to describe those who are quarrelsome or licentious. The KJV translates it as 'fool' or 'foolish man'.
Amplified meaning
a stag, a fool
Tyndale gloss
fool(ish)
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

אֱוִיל (eviyl) means 'foolish' and describes someone who despises wisdom, mocks when guilty, is quarrelsome, or licentious. It is derived from an unused root suggesting perversion. The word is used in various contexts in the Old Testament, primarily to denote a person lacking wisdom.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

אֱוִיל 26 adj. foolish

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H191 אֱוִיל foolish

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

191 'eviyl ev-eel'

from an unused root (meaning to be perverse); (figuratively)

silly:--fool(-ish) (man).

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

אֱוִיל (e.vil) — fool(ish).

1) be foolish, foolish

1a) (subst)

1a1) of one who despises wisdom

1a2) of one who mocks when guilty

1a3) of one who is quarrelsome

1a4) of one who is licentious

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Adj — Adj
HAamsa
Bible dictionarieson the English sense
American Tract Society Bible Dictionary

Any person who does not act wisely, that is, does not follow the warnings and requirements of God, which are founded in infinite wisdom. Hence "a fool" is put for a wicked man, an enemy or neglecter of God, Ps 14:1 Pr 19:1. So folly is put for wickedness, 2Sa 13:12,13 Ps 38:5, foolish lusts for wicked lusts, etc. Foolish talking, foolish questions, are vain, empty, unprofitable conversation, 2Ti 2:23.

Nave's Topical Bible

→ General scriptures concerning Ps 5:5; 14:1; 53:1; 74:18-22; 107:17; Pr 1:7,22; 3:35; 9:6-8,13-17; 10:1,8,10,13,14,18,23; 14:1,7-9,15; 15:7,20,21; 17:24,25; 18:2,6,7; 19:13; 20:3; 21:20; 26:3-12; 29:9,11; Ec 4:5; 7:9; 10:11-15; Mt 7:26,27; Tit 3:3

→ PARABLES OF

Of the foolish virgns Mt 25:1-13

Of the rich fool Lu 12:16-20

Sources on this page. Lexicons and dictionaries imported from the CrossWire SWORD modules — Abbott-Smith, Strong's, Dodson, the Intermediate Liddell-Scott-Jones, Robinson and Packard, Webster and Cawdrey. Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament (Harper, 1889 — Grimm’s Wilke’s Clavis Novi Testamenti, translated, revised and enlarged by Joseph Henry Thayer) is public domain and is set here from the Internet Archive page scan greekenglishlex00grim; it is uncorrected OCR, marked as such on the entry itself, and the Strong’s numbers — which Thayer’s own edition does not carry — were matched by lemma against the other modules on this page. Trench’s Synonyms of the New Testament (Macmillan, 1880) and Moulton and Milligan’s Vocabulary of the Greek Testament (Hodder & Stoughton, 1930, which entered the United States public domain on 1 January 2026) are set from Internet Archive page scans synonymsofnewtes00treniala and vocabularyofgree00mouluoft, and are likewise uncorrected OCR matched to Strong’s numbers by lemma. Trench treats a group of words at once, so the same essay stands on the page of each word it compares. The Mounce Concise Greek-English Dictionary is © 1993 and is used here by permission for non-commercial use, www.teknia.com/greek-dictionary. The full Liddell-Scott-Jones and the Hebrew word data (TAHOT) come from STEPBible.org, CC BY 4.0. Brown-Driver-Briggs is the OpenScriptures digitisation, public domain. Syntax analysis is the Nestle 1904 Lowfat treebank (biblicalhumanities.org); the concordance and morphology are built from the tagged Nestle 1904 text. Septuagint occurrences use the Open Scriptures Septuagint lemma index, derived from CCAT (University of Pennsylvania) and the Rahlfs 1935 dataset by Eliran Wong, CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — used here on a non-commercial ministry site. Greek of Josephus and Barnabas from the Perseus Digital Library, CC BY-SA 4.0. Commentaries and the Ante-Nicene Fathers are public-domain texts hosted on this site. Everyday Greek from the Duke Databank of Documentary Papyri, CC BY 3.0, with dates and provenance from the Heidelberger Gesamtverzeichnis. Philo and the Apostolic Fathers from Open Greek and Latin (First1KGreek), CC BY-SA 4.0. The apparatus and the fifth Greek column are the SBL Greek New Testament, © 2010 SBL and Logos Bible Software, CC BY 4.0. The Latin is the Clementine Vulgate (public domain); the Syriac New Testament is the ETCBC edition (MIT licence). The Hebrew behind the Greek is computed here from the Septuagint index and TAHOT, not taken from any aligned edition. The translation spread and the per-word edition marks come from the Translators Amalgamated Greek NT (STEPBible, CC BY 4.0); clause roles from the Nestle 1904 Lowfat treebank (CC BY-SA 4.0); place identifications and their confidence from OpenBible.info Bible Geocoding (CC BY 4.0), with map tiles © OpenStreetMap contributors. Gospel parallels are computed here from shared uncommon vocabulary, not taken from any printed harmony. Cross references are the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge and the subject headings are Nave’s Topical Bible, both public domain. Works under Creative Commons licences are used unchanged apart from markup removal.

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