Job 12:8

Authorized King James Version

Or speak to the earth, and it shall teach thee: and the fishes of the sea shall declare unto thee.

Word-by-Word Analysis

א֤וֹ

H176

desire (and so probably in proverbs 31:4); hence (by way of alternative) or, also if

שִׂ֣יחַ

H7878

Or speak

to ponder, i.e., (by implication) converse (with oneself, and hence, aloud) or (transitively) utter

לָאָ֣רֶץ

H776

to the earth

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

וְתֹרֶ֑ךָּ

H3384

and it 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

וִֽיסַפְּר֥וּ

H5608

shall declare

properly, to score with a mark as a tally or record, i.e., (by implication) to inscribe, and also to enumerate; intensively, to recount, i.e., celebra

לְ֝ךָ֗

דְּגֵ֣י

H1709

thee and the fishes

a fish (often used collectively)

הַיָּֽם׃

H3220

of the sea

a sea (as breaking in noisy surf) or large body of water; specifically (with the article), the mediterranean sea; sometimes a large river, or an artif

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

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?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?