Job 2:4

And Satan answered the LORD, and said, Skin for skin, yea, all that a man hath will he give for his life.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיַּ֧עַן

H6030

answered

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,

הַשָּׂטָ֛ן

H7854

And Satan

an opponent; especially (with the article prefixed) satan, the arch-enemy of good

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

יְהוָ֖ה

H3068

the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

וַיֹּאמַ֑ר

H559

and said

to say (used with great latitude)

ע֗וֹר

H5785

Skin

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

בְּעַד

H1157

in up to or over against; generally at, beside, among, behind, for, etc

ע֗וֹר

H5785

Skin

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

וְכֹל֙

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

#10

אֲשֶׁ֣ר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

#11

לָאִ֔ישׁ

H376

yea all that a man

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

#12

יִתֵּ֖ן

H5414

hath will he give

to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)

#13

בְּעַ֥ד

H1157

in up to or over against; generally at, beside, among, behind, for, etc

#14

נַפְשֽׁוֹ׃

H5315

for his life

properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment

Analysis

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

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 life in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on life address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How does this verse's literary context within Job chapter 2 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How might the original audience's understanding of life differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?