Job 16:6

Though I speak, my grief is not asswaged: and though I forbear, what am I eased?

Word-by-Word Analysis

אִֽם

H518

used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not

אֲ֭דַבְּרָה

H1696

Though I speak

perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue

לֹא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יֵחָשֵׂ֣ךְ

H2820

is not asswaged

to restrain or (reflexive) refrain; by implication, to refuse, spare, preserve; to observe

כְּאֵבִ֑י

H3511

my grief

suffering (physical or mental), adversity

וְ֝אַחְדְּלָ֗ה

H2308

and though I forbear

properly, to be flabby, i.e., (by implication) desist; (figuratively) be lacking or idle

מַה

H4100

properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and

מִנִּ֥י

H4480

properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses

יַהֲלֹֽךְ׃

H1980

what am I eased

to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Job, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Job.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Job Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?