On Automatic

Proverbs 16:17 (BES) The paths of life turn aside from evil; and the ways of righteousness are length of life. He that receives instruction shall be in prosperity; and he that regards reproofs shall be made wise. He that keeps his ways, preserves his own soul; and he that loves his life will spare his mouth.

In the LXX this verse is more than twice as long as of the translations based on the Hebrew.  When I first read it, I thought that the first half was a copy of the others and the second half was added.  On reading more carefully I saw that the second half of the phrase from the Hebrew is actually started halfway down through this verse.

One of the differences that I saw between the Greek and the Hebrew is that the LXX seems to assume that the path of life will automatically turn us away from evil whereas the Hebrew puts the choice or decision in our hands.  I’m not sure why the difference.  I would go with the Hebrew, which is found in the KJV and the NASB.

So?  Life is portrayed as a journey.  Believers are said to be on the way.  God gives us free will, grace, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.  Mark your path carefully today.