Job 16:21

Authorized King James Version

O that one might plead for a man with God, as a man pleadeth for his neighbour!

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְיוֹכַ֣ח
O that one might plead
to be right (i.e., correct); reciprocal, to argue; causatively, to decide, justify or convict
#2
לְגֶ֣בֶר
for a man
properly, a valiant man or warrior; generally, a person simply
#3
עִם
adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then
#4
אֱל֑וֹהַּ
with God
a deity or the deity
#5
וּֽבֶן
pleadeth for his neighbour
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#6
אָדָ֥ם
as a man
ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)
#7
לְרֵעֵֽהוּ׃
an associate (more or less close)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Job. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. 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 sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection