Job 19:22

Why do ye persecute me as God, and are not satisfied with my flesh?

Word-by-Word Analysis

לָ֭מָּה

H4100

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

תִּרְדְּפֻ֣נִי

H7291

Why do ye persecute

to run after (usually with hostile intent; figuratively [of time] gone by)

כְמוֹ

H3644

as, thus, so

אֵ֑ל

H410

me as God

strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the almighty (but used also of any deity)

וּ֝מִבְּשָׂרִ֗י

H1320

with my flesh

flesh (from its freshness); by extension, body, person; also (by euphemistically) the pudenda of a man

לֹ֣א

H3808

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

תִשְׂבָּֽעוּ׃

H7646

and are not satisfied

to sate, i.e., fill to satisfaction (literally or figuratively)

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 divine sovereignty 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

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

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?