Lexical Summary chashok: Dark, darkness Original Word: חָשֹׁךְ Strong's Exhaustive Concordance meaning From chashak; dark (figuratively, i.e. Obscure) -- meaning see HEBREW chashak NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom chashak Definition obscure, low NASB Translation obscure men (1). Brown-Driver-Briggs [חָשֹׁךְ] adjective obscure, low, only masculine plural as substantive; בַּליִֿתְיַצֵּב לִפְנֵי חֲשֻׁכִּים Proverbs 22:29 he shall not stand before obscure men (opposed to לפנימֿלכים). Topical Lexicon Usage in Scripture Proverbs 22:29 presents the single biblical appearance of the term normally rendered “obscure men.” In the Berean Standard Bible the verse reads: “Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men.” The word marks a sharp contrast between people of recognized authority (“kings”) and those who possess neither influence nor public standing. Cultural and Historical Background In the court-oriented society of the ancient Near East, proximity to royalty carried tangible benefits—economic security, protection, and social prestige. Conversely, being consigned to dealings with the “obscure” signified limited opportunity and a lack of social capital. Proverbs leverages this cultural setting to commend diligence: skill moves a person from the margins to the center of decision-making circles. Theological Implications 1. Divine Providence and Human Responsibility: Scripture consistently joins God’s sovereign ordering of events with the responsibility of individuals to act faithfully (Proverbs 16:9; Philippians 2:12-13). The verse assumes that excellence, though a human endeavor, is a means God uses to position His servants for influence. Connections with Wider Biblical Teaching • Positive examples: Joseph rises from prison to Pharaoh’s court by interpreting dreams (Genesis 41:14-44); Daniel and his friends outclass Babylonian sages (Daniel 1:17-20). Both narratives echo Proverbs 22:29 in substance if not in vocabulary. Practical Applications for Believers 1. Vocational Excellence: Christians are encouraged to pursue mastery in their fields, viewing proficiency as an act of worship and a platform for witness (Matthew 5:16). Implications for Church Ministry and Leadership Local congregations benefit when members cultivate skill. Competent administrators, musicians, teachers, and craftsmen enhance the church’s witness and functionality (Exodus 31:1-5; Romans 12:6-8). Leadership development should therefore emphasize both character and capability, reflecting the proverb’s inseparable link between diligence and influence. Eschatological Orientation Earthly recognition foreshadows a greater hearing before the King of kings. The ultimate commendation, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21), demonstrates that God’s valuation of skillful, faithful service carries eternal weight. The proverb thus calls believers to labor in light of the coming kingdom, where the obscurity of this age will be fully eclipsed by the glory of Christ’s presence. Summary Strong’s Hebrew 2823 speaks to the state of social obscurity, used once to highlight the dignity God places on diligent workmanship. By contrasting an audience with kings against anonymity, Proverbs 22:29 teaches that excellence is both a moral duty and a God-ordained means of influence. The principle resonates across Scripture, urging believers in every generation to honor God through capable, conscientious service. Forms and Transliterations חֲשֻׁכִּֽים׃ חשכים׃ chashukKim ḥă·šuk·kîm ḥăšukkîmLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Proverbs 22:29 HEB: יִ֝תְיַצֵּב לִפְנֵ֥י חֲשֻׁכִּֽים׃ פ NAS: He will not stand before obscure men. KJV: he shall not stand before mean [men]. INT: stand before obscure 1 Occurrence |
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