Job 19:7

Authorized King James Version

Behold, I cry out of wrong, but I am not heard: I cry aloud, but there is no judgment.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הֵ֤ן
lo!; also (as expressing surprise) if
#2
אֶצְעַ֣ק
Behold I cry out
to shriek; (by implication) to proclaim (an assembly)
#3
חָ֭מָס
of wrong
violence; by implication, wrong; by metonymy unjust gain
#4
וְלֹ֣א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#5
אֵעָנֶ֑ה
but I am not heard
properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,
#6
אֲ֝שַׁוַּ֗ע
I cry aloud
properly, to be free; but used only causatively and reflexively, to halloo (for help, i.e., freedom from some trouble)
#7
וְאֵ֣ין
a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle
#8
מִשְׁפָּֽט׃
but there is no judgment
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind

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 revelation 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 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