Job 13:3

Authorized King James Version

Surely I would speak to the Almighty, and I desire to reason with God.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אוּלָ֗ם
Surely
however or on the contrary
#2
אֲ֭נִי
i
#3
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#4
שַׁדַּ֣י
to the Almighty
the almighty
#5
אֲדַבֵּ֑ר
I would speak
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
#6
וְהוֹכֵ֖חַ
to reason
to be right (i.e., correct); reciprocal, to argue; causatively, to decide, justify or convict
#7
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#8
אֵ֣ל
with God
strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the almighty (but used also of any deity)
#9
אֶחְפָּֽץ׃
and I desire
properly, to incline to; by implication (literally but rarely) to bend; figuratively, to be pleased with, desire

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Job. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. 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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection