Job 15:12

Authorized King James Version

Why doth thine heart carry thee away? and what do thy eyes wink at,

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מַה
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
#2
יִּקָּחֲךָ֥
carry thee away
to take (in the widest variety of applications)
#3
לִבֶּ֑ךָ
Why doth thine heart
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
#4
וּֽמַה
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
#5
יִּרְזְמ֥וּן
wink at
to twinkle the eye (in mockery)
#6
עֵינֶֽיךָ׃
and what do thy eyes
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Job, this passage highlights salvation through rhetorical questioning that engages the reader. 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

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