Job 19:26

Authorized King James Version

And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God:

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְאַחַ֣ר

H310

And though after

properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)

ע֭וֹרִֽי

H5785

my skin

skin (as naked); by implication, hide, leather

נִקְּפוּ

H5362

worms destroy

to strike with more or less violence (beat, fell, corrode); by implication (of attack) to knock together, i.e., surround or circulate

זֹ֑את

H2063

this (often used adverb)

וּ֝מִבְּשָׂרִ֗י

H1320

this body yet in my flesh

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

אֶֽחֱזֶ֥ה

H2372

shall I see

to gaze at; mentally to perceive, contemplate (with pleasure); specifically, to have a vision of

אֱלֽוֹהַּ׃

H433

God

a deity or the deity

Analysis

Within the broader context of Job, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
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?