Job 16:5

Authorized King James Version

But I would strengthen you with my mouth, and the moving of my lips should asswage your grief.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אֲאַמִּצְכֶ֥ם
But I would strengthen
to be alert, physically (on foot) or mentally (in courage)
#2
בְּמוֹ
you with
in, with, by, etc
#3
פִ֑י
my mouth
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
#4
וְנִ֖יד
and the moving
motion (of the lips in speech)
#5
שְׂפָתַ֣י
of my lips
the lip (as a natural boundary); by implication, language; by analogy, a margin (of a vessel, water, cloth, etc.)
#6
יַחְשֹֽׂךְ׃
should asswage
to restrain or (reflexive) refrain; by implication, to refuse, spare, preserve; to observe

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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