Job 16:18

Authorized King James Version

O earth, cover not thou my blood, and let my cry have no place.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אֶ֭רֶץ
O earth
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#2
אַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#3
תְּכַסִּ֣י
cover
properly, to plump, i.e., fill up hollows; by implication, to cover (for clothing or secrecy)
#4
דָמִ֑י
not thou my blood
blood (as that which when shed causes death) of man or an animal; by analogy, the juice of the grape; figuratively (especially in the plural) bloodshe
#5
וְֽאַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#6
יְהִ֥י
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#7
מָ֝ק֗וֹם
have no place
properly, a standing, i.e., a spot; but used widely of a locality (general or specific); also (figuratively) of a condition (of body or mind)
#8
לְזַעֲקָתִֽי׃
and let my cry
a shriek or outcry

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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection