Job 12:10

Authorized King James Version

In whose hand is the soul of every living thing, and the breath of all mankind.

Word-by-Word Analysis

אֲשֶׁ֣ר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

בְּ֭יָדוֹ

H3027

In whose hand

a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v

נֶ֣פֶשׁ

H5315

is the soul

properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

חָ֑י

H2416

of every living thing

alive; hence, raw (flesh); fresh (plant, water, year), strong; also (as noun, especially in the feminine singular and masculine plural) life (or livin

וְ֝ר֗וּחַ

H7307

and the breath

wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

בְּשַׂר

H1320

flesh (from its freshness); by extension, body, person; also (by euphemistically) the pudenda of a man

אִֽישׁ׃

H376

of all mankind

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Job, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Job.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How does this verse's literary context within Job chapter 12 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?