Job 12:4

Authorized King James Version

I am as one mocked of his neighbour, who calleth upon God, and he answereth him: the just upright man is laughed to scorn.

Word-by-Word Analysis

שְׂ֝ח֗וֹק

H7814

I am as one mocked

laughter (in merriment or defiance)

לְרֵעֵ֨הוּ׀

H7453

of his neighbour

an associate (more or less close)

אֶֽהְיֶ֗ה

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

קֹרֵ֣א

H7121

who calleth

to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)

לֶ֭אֱלוֹהַּ

H433

upon God

a deity or the deity

וַֽיַּעֲנֵ֑הוּ

H6030

and he answereth

properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,

שְׂ֝ח֗וֹק

H7814

I am as one mocked

laughter (in merriment or defiance)

צַדִּ֥יק

H6662

him the just

just

תָּמִֽים׃

H8549

upright

entire (literally, figuratively or morally); also (as noun) integrity, truth

Analysis

Within the broader context of Job, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Job Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?