Job 12:7

Authorized King James Version

But ask now the beasts, and they shall teach thee; and the fowls of the air, and they shall tell thee:

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְֽאוּלָ֗ם

H199

But

however or on the contrary

שְׁאַל

H7592

ask

to inquire; by implication, to request; by extension, to demand

נָ֣א

H4994

'i pray', 'now', or 'then'; added mostly to verbs (in the imperative or future), or to interjections, occasionally to an adverb or conjunction

בְהֵמ֣וֹת

H929

now the beasts

properly, a dumb beast; especially any large quadruped or animal (often collective)

וְתֹרֶ֑ךָּ

H3384

and they shall teach

properly, to flow as water (i.e., to rain); transitively, to lay or throw (especially an arrow, i.e., to shoot); figuratively, to point out (as if by

וְע֥וֹף

H5775

thee and the fowls

a bird (as covered with feathers, or rather as covering with wings), often collectively

הַ֝שָּׁמַ֗יִם

H8064

of the air

the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r

וְיַגֶּד

H5046

and they shall tell

properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to

לָֽךְ׃

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Job. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within Job chapter 12 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?
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?