Job 13:5

O that ye would altogether hold your peace! and it should be your wisdom.

Word-by-Word Analysis

מִֽי

H4310

who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix

יִ֭תֵּן

H5414

O that

to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)

תַּחֲרִישׁ֑וּן

H2790

hold your peace

to scratch, i.e., (by implication) to engrave, plough; hence (from the use of tools) to fabricate (of any material); figuratively, to devise (in a bad

תַּחֲרִישׁ֑וּן

H2790

hold your peace

to scratch, i.e., (by implication) to engrave, plough; hence (from the use of tools) to fabricate (of any material); figuratively, to devise (in a bad

וּתְהִ֖י

H1961

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

לָכֶ֣ם

לְחָכְמָֽה׃

H2451

and it should be your wisdom

wisdom (in a good sense)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing peace contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 peace in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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?
How does this verse's literary context within Job chapter 13 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?