Proverbs 3:34 in the King James Version (KJV) states, "Surely he scorneth the scorners: but he giveth grace unto the lowly." This verse is a part of a larger passage in Proverbs 3 that is focused on the value of wisdom and the rewards of following God's commands. In this particular verse, the contrast between the attitude of God towards the proud and the humble is emphasized.

The theme of humility and pride is a central aspect of this verse. The verse suggests that scorn and grace are two responses from God that are directly related to a person's character and attitude. God is said to "scorneth the scorners," meaning that he rejects or disapproves of those who are arrogant, boastful, and insolent. Conversely, the verse states that God "giveth grace unto the lowly," or shows favor and kindness to the humble, modest, and respectful. This dichotomy suggests that pride and humility are significant factors in how God interacts with human beings.

The context of the verse within the larger passage of Proverbs 3 further emphasizes the importance of wisdom and understanding in a person's life. The preceding verses in Proverbs 3 exhort the reader to trust in the Lord with all their heart, to not lean on their own understanding, and to acknowledge God in all their ways. This emphasis on acknowledging and trusting in God is connected to the idea of humility, as it requires a recognition of one's limitations and a submission to a higher authority. The subsequent verses in Proverbs 3 also speak to the benefits of wisdom, such as long life, prosperity, and peace. Therefore, Proverbs 3:34 can be seen as a continuation of this theme, emphasizing that humility is a key aspect of obtaining the benefits of wisdom and a harmonious relationship with God.

The symbolism in this verse lies in the contrast between God's response to the proud and the humble. Throughout the Bible, humility is regarded as a virtue, while pride is often associated with sin and rebellion against God. In the New Testament, Jesus frequently emphasized the importance of humility, stating in Matthew 23:12, "For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted." The contrast between God's treatment of the proud and the humble serves as a symbol of the broader moral and spiritual dichotomy between arrogance and meekness.

In the broader context of the book of Proverbs, the verse can be seen as part of the overarching theme of the consequences of one's actions. Throughout Proverbs, there is a consistent emphasis on the outcomes of following wisdom or folly, righteousness or wickedness, and humility or pride. Proverbs 3:34 fits into this framework by presenting God's response to different attitudes and behaviors. This verse, then, can be understood as a reflection of the moral order of the universe, in which God rewards the humble and opposes the proud.

In conclusion, Proverbs 3:34 in the King James Version is a verse that emphasizes the importance of humility in the eyes of God. It is situated within a larger passage that extols the value of wisdom and understanding, and it highlights the dichotomy between God's response to the proud and the humble. The verse carries symbolic significance in its portrayal of humility as a virtue and pride as a vice, and it fits into the broader themes of the consequences of one's actions and the moral order of the universe. Ultimately, Proverbs 3:34 serves as a reminder of the importance of cultivating a spirit of humility in one's relationship with God and others.