Job 15:14

Authorized King James Version

What is man, that he should be clean? and he which is born of a woman, that he should be righteous?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מָֽה
H4100
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
#2
אֱנ֥וֹשׁ
H582
What is man
properly, a mortal (and thus differing from the more dignified h0120); hence, a man in general (singly or collectively)
#3
כִּֽי
H3588
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#4
יִזְכֶּ֑ה
H2135
that he should be clean
to be translucent; figuratively, to be innocent
#5
וְכִֽי
H3588
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#6
יִ֝צְדַּ֗ק
H6663
that he should be righteous
to be (causatively, make) right (in a moral or forensic sense)
#7
יְל֣וּד
H3205
and he which is born
to bear young; causatively, to beget; medically, to act as midwife; specifically, to show lineage
#8
אִשָּֽׁה׃
H802
of a woman
a woman

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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection