Job 18:20

Authorized King James Version

They that come after him shall be astonied at his day, as they that went before were affrighted.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#2
י֭וֹמוֹ
at his day
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
#3
נָשַׁ֣מּוּ
him shall be astonied
to stun (or intransitively, grow numb), i.e., devastate or (figuratively) stupefy (both usually in a passive sense)
#4
אַחֲרֹנִ֑ים
They that come after
hinder; generally, late or last; specifically (as facing the east) western
#5
וְ֝קַדְמֹנִ֗ים
as they that went before
(of time) anterior or (of place) oriental
#6
אָ֣חֲזוּ
were affrighted
to seize (often with the accessory idea of holding in possession)
#7
שָֽׂעַר׃
a tempest

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