Job 19:10

Authorized King James Version

He hath destroyed me on every side, and I am gone: and mine hope hath he removed like a tree.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
יִתְּצֵ֣נִי
He hath destroyed
to tear down
#2
סָ֭בִיב
me on every side
(as noun) a circle, neighbour, or environs; but chiefly (as adverb, with or without preposition) around
#3
וָאֵלַ֑ךְ
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#4
וַיַּסַּ֥ע
hath he removed
properly, to pull up, especially the tent-pins, i.e., start on a journey
#5
כָּ֝עֵ֗ץ
like a tree
a tree (from its firmness); hence, wood (plural sticks)
#6
תִּקְוָתִֽי׃
and mine hope
literally a cord (as an attachment); figuratively, expectancy

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing hope contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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