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Abstract

The book of Proverbs appears to employ two alternative conceptual paradigms with respect to the evaluation of human actions: the pragmatic-utilitarian model of the ‘deed-consequence nexus’, and the theological notion of divine retribution. These conceptual frameworks have frequently been adduced as evidence of diachronic stratification in the book—an older layer promoting pragmatic-mundane wisdom and a later level of theological elaboration. This article examines the various arguments made for viewing Proverbs as either synchronic or diachronic. It also explores the possibility that the dual presence of the human and divine systems is a function of the seam between the author’s didactic-utilitarian purpose and the conventional sapiential religious-moralistic view.

Keywords

Deuteronomic covenant didactic purpose divine intervention divine retribution exhortation fear of the Lord judgment justice moral framework pragmatic-utilitarian view Proverbs retribution righteousness synchronic/diachronic approach wisdom

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The Concept of ‘Reward’ in Proverbs: A Diachronic or Synchronic Approach?

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