Job 15:2

Authorized King James Version

Should a wise man utter vain knowledge, and fill his belly with the east wind?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הֶֽחָכָ֗ם
Should a wise man
wise, (i.e., intelligent, skilful or artful)
#2
יַעֲנֶ֥ה
utter
properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,
#3
דַֽעַת
knowledge
knowledge
#4
ר֑וּחַ
vain
wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the
#5
וִֽימַלֵּ֖א
and fill
to fill or (intransitively) be full of, in a wide application (literally and figuratively)
#6
קָדִ֣ים
with the east wind
the fore or front part; hence (by orientation) the east (often adverbially, eastward, for brevity the east wind)
#7
בִּטְנֽוֹ׃
his belly
the belly, especially the womb; also the bosom or body of anything

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