KJV ORIGINAL
The way of life is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
The path of life leads upward for the wise person, so they can turn away from the grave below.
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
This verse is saying that wise people choose a path that leads to life and helps them avoid destruction.
📚 Historical Context
This proverb was written during ancient Israel's time when people understood life as having two clear directions - upward toward God and blessing, or downward toward death and destruction. The Hebrew word 'sheol' (translated as 'hell') referred to the grave or the place of the dead, representing the ultimate consequence of foolish living.
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